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The Forgotten Ones #2
Clarity
Rhys
I’m an addict.
I’ve been abused, and I’ve been the abuser.
My entire life has been a blur, filled with misery and anguish.
I’m trying my best to stay clean and lucid even when my world feels dark.
Now, I have to stay away from the woman who makes everything murky and complicated.
Blair
I’ve always been a toy for others to use.
A spoiled, broken girl who’s never been seen because no one ever tried.
He sees me though. Holding up a mirror and showing me exactly who I am with absolute clarity.
Is that a good thing?
I’m not sure.
This book contains sensitive subjects that may be upsetting to some readers.
I’m an addict.
I’ve been abused, and I’ve been the abuser.
My entire life has been a blur, filled with misery and anguish.
I’m trying my best to stay clean and lucid even when my world feels dark.
Now, I have to stay away from the woman who makes everything murky and complicated.
Blair
I’ve always been a toy for others to use.
A spoiled, broken girl who’s never been seen because no one ever tried.
He sees me though. Holding up a mirror and showing me exactly who I am with absolute clarity.
Is that a good thing?
I’m not sure.
This book contains sensitive subjects that may be upsetting to some readers.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 12, 2020
30 people are currently reading
1250 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Dykes
95 books2,534 followersNicole Dykes is a wife and a professional assistant/mom to two gorgeous girls. Currently residing in Kansas, she’s a lover of coffee, Kansas City Chiefs, and all things romance.
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
She's found her passion in writing M/M romance because love is love is love. Some popular works include Hostile, The Spark of Hope Series, and The Kensley Panthers Series!
Email at nicoledykes_author@yahoo.com
Or visit my website at Www.authornicoledykes.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 210 reviews
November 1, 2020
“... if you break, do it with me. Don’t ever run to anything else.”
Leave it to Nicole Dykes to slide in with Rhys and Blair as one of my favorite book couples...
Clarity was an unexpected punch to the heart. Nothing about their story, love, or the work towards healing came easy.
The tough outside appearance Rhys personified was anything but that, and there’s something special when it comes to reading about a vulnerable hero in a story. Again, I wasn’t expecting it. My heart wasn’t ready, and it hurt more with every detail of his past revealed.
And the details of his past are HARD to read. He lived a very dark childhood, but the way it was told was with respect and care.
It also takes someone special to love a person that shattered, and Blair “Badass Barbie” Ashton was it. The depth of her character shined through with each flip of the page. She was patience, understanding, and fight.
They made each other’s world a little brighter and safer. The same being said for another special character that entered their life.
Clarity is a story that swallows you up in emotions. A story that starts with heartbreak, and slowly pieced back together into something extraordinarily beautiful.
Leave it to Nicole Dykes to slide in with Rhys and Blair as one of my favorite book couples...
Clarity was an unexpected punch to the heart. Nothing about their story, love, or the work towards healing came easy.
The tough outside appearance Rhys personified was anything but that, and there’s something special when it comes to reading about a vulnerable hero in a story. Again, I wasn’t expecting it. My heart wasn’t ready, and it hurt more with every detail of his past revealed.
And the details of his past are HARD to read. He lived a very dark childhood, but the way it was told was with respect and care.
It also takes someone special to love a person that shattered, and Blair “Badass Barbie” Ashton was it. The depth of her character shined through with each flip of the page. She was patience, understanding, and fight.
They made each other’s world a little brighter and safer. The same being said for another special character that entered their life.
Clarity is a story that swallows you up in emotions. A story that starts with heartbreak, and slowly pieced back together into something extraordinarily beautiful.
October 30, 2020
Arc review!
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Steam: 🔥🔥/3
Gah I loved this book so so freaking hard! Rhys and Blair’s story was just so amazing! I loved the relationships that developed throughout this book between the couple and between Bree just truly so unique and amazing!! I loved the ending and that bonus chapter omG 😳 !
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Steam: 🔥🔥/3
Gah I loved this book so so freaking hard! Rhys and Blair’s story was just so amazing! I loved the relationships that developed throughout this book between the couple and between Bree just truly so unique and amazing!! I loved the ending and that bonus chapter omG 😳 !
January 31, 2021
Audio 5+ Stars
Story 4.5 Stars
I loved this! I'm a sucker for story that features an alpha heroine, and Blair was definitely that.
The story definitely needed to be longer. Not only because I'm greedy and wanted more (which I am and did), but because the pace at times felt rushed. Some of the scenes needed more depth and development. But the story still managed to tug at my heart strings. 😍
Story 4.5 Stars
I loved this! I'm a sucker for story that features an alpha heroine, and Blair was definitely that.
The story definitely needed to be longer. Not only because I'm greedy and wanted more (which I am and did), but because the pace at times felt rushed. Some of the scenes needed more depth and development. But the story still managed to tug at my heart strings. 😍
November 2, 2020
Here is a little something you should know about me as a reader...I FUCKING LOVE A BROKEN BAD BOY!! But Rhys, oh my lanta he is so much more than broken, he is trying to survive, existing in a shell of rubble that was brought upon him. Bent but so not broken. Growing up in the system was not just hard it was excruciating and when he is faced with his demons through the eyes of another, he has to act on it. Nicole Dykes slayed this story and carefully executed such a harrowing experience with grace and fortitude. Giving it a voice within fictional characters that far exceeded my expectations. The sheer force of Rhys and Blair's connection was felt beyond the pages and kept me completely engrossed with everything they felt for each other. The tension was THICK, the connection was real, the heart of the story was palpable and the FEELS were imminent. I can't stop thinking about this story. How a family was made within the broken pieces of two souls that had so much more to give than they even knew. How Ms Dykes was able to draw that out in full detail, having it land straight within my soul, is beyond me. She wrote a beautiful story of survival, love, friendship and loyalty that has also landed on my favorites of 2020 list. Harrowing, hard to read at times, redemption story of soulmates that didn't realize they were destined to be a family and the journey it led them on...LOVED IT xo
nope-nope-nope
October 30, 2020This author does entirely too much incestuous friend group stuff. All theses ppl have slept with each other and are fine with it. Its just not romantic. I dont want to read about the love stories of ppl who were the OW or OM in a prior book. Writing style is good but she needs to learn how to construct stories that are romantic, bc the stuff she does is very off putting to read. A lot of sex scenes with OP too, sometimes more time is spent on a connection with that person than the MC
November 12, 2020
(4.2 Stars)
A past plagued by darkness and pain, a present showered with uncertainty, and a future drowning in hope. Nicole Dykes unites two broken characters, and creates a story that consumed our hearts. A hero tormented by his past, Rys’ life takes an unforeseen turn when a selfless act of kindness leads him to seek aid from an unlikely participant, Blair. Together, they face challenges, learn to trust, and transform their lives leaving a lasting impact on those around them as well. We were invested in their journey, desperate to watch them grow, and eager for them to discover happiness. Clarity is an emotional read.
Many thanks to Nicole Dykes, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A past plagued by darkness and pain, a present showered with uncertainty, and a future drowning in hope. Nicole Dykes unites two broken characters, and creates a story that consumed our hearts. A hero tormented by his past, Rys’ life takes an unforeseen turn when a selfless act of kindness leads him to seek aid from an unlikely participant, Blair. Together, they face challenges, learn to trust, and transform their lives leaving a lasting impact on those around them as well. We were invested in their journey, desperate to watch them grow, and eager for them to discover happiness. Clarity is an emotional read.
Many thanks to Nicole Dykes, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2020
Rhys and Blair were not what I was expecting... They were so much more!
Their story isn't filled with rainbows and gumdrops. It's the dark nitty gritty that life tends to be.
The road they travel isn't a straight shot. The curves are more the hairpin type instead of just bends. Which gives these characters more depth and more reasons to fall head over heels in love with them.
This is one of Dykes more darker pieces of work, you can absolutely tell she put a chunk of her heart and soul into the pages.
I don't need to tell you to one click this one.. Dykes work speaks for itself so you know...it's exceptional and your already clicking.
Their story isn't filled with rainbows and gumdrops. It's the dark nitty gritty that life tends to be.
The road they travel isn't a straight shot. The curves are more the hairpin type instead of just bends. Which gives these characters more depth and more reasons to fall head over heels in love with them.
This is one of Dykes more darker pieces of work, you can absolutely tell she put a chunk of her heart and soul into the pages.
I don't need to tell you to one click this one.. Dykes work speaks for itself so you know...it's exceptional and your already clicking.
October 29, 2020
This book hit me right in the heart. This subject tends to be a sore spot for me but the grace and class with which the author approached such sensitive subjects is so admirable. I loved Rhys. Beautifully damaged Rhys. My heart bled for him and his struggles. Blair is so strong willed and free spirited it was fate that the two crossed paths. Shes the glue. I hope to see much much more of the both of them and little Bree in the future <3
January 24, 2021
Edited to add audio review
Seriously! I have read the book before because I absolutely love Nicole Dykes I am always dying to have another go when they hit audio. Reading her books is so good. Hearing them makes them epic. She has an unbelievable knack for finding the perfect narrators to take her books to the next level! This bike is no exception! From the first sentence, his voices shivered down my spine I was hooked! I loved it so much I never even hit the pause book as I was drawn into Reese and Blair’s story! This isn’t an easy book to read. There’s such a dark past and it’s no holds bar when the details roll out so if you have triggers this is not a book I would recommend. A broken boy and a girl Just wanting to be loved end up in a crazy hands off relationship. They both end up moving and when a little girl runs into Reece’s tattoo shop it turns his world upside down. Your emotions will be brutally beat on in this book but man it’s all worth it in the end! Superb writing and perfect performance!
Original review
You’re going to need supplies to read this book! Seriously alcohol (I don’t drink wine) abs tissue. Seriously I don’t k ow how Nicole does it. She takes any story like and just weaves it into an emotionally charged read. My heart is truly tied in knots after reading this book. Rhys is the bad boy who’s you want to hate and in previous books I think it a possible but no way after reading this story can yoU not love him. And don’t get me started on Blair, I just adore her. I’m not giving any of this this story away because you need to experience it. But as a parent or even a basic decent human being, some of these story is hard to taken. Never do you want to see a kid hurt. This book isn’t sunshine and rainbows. It’s not Cinderella and her prince. It’s real. It’s raw and it is everything.
Seriously! I have read the book before because I absolutely love Nicole Dykes I am always dying to have another go when they hit audio. Reading her books is so good. Hearing them makes them epic. She has an unbelievable knack for finding the perfect narrators to take her books to the next level! This bike is no exception! From the first sentence, his voices shivered down my spine I was hooked! I loved it so much I never even hit the pause book as I was drawn into Reese and Blair’s story! This isn’t an easy book to read. There’s such a dark past and it’s no holds bar when the details roll out so if you have triggers this is not a book I would recommend. A broken boy and a girl Just wanting to be loved end up in a crazy hands off relationship. They both end up moving and when a little girl runs into Reece’s tattoo shop it turns his world upside down. Your emotions will be brutally beat on in this book but man it’s all worth it in the end! Superb writing and perfect performance!
Original review
You’re going to need supplies to read this book! Seriously alcohol (I don’t drink wine) abs tissue. Seriously I don’t k ow how Nicole does it. She takes any story like and just weaves it into an emotionally charged read. My heart is truly tied in knots after reading this book. Rhys is the bad boy who’s you want to hate and in previous books I think it a possible but no way after reading this story can yoU not love him. And don’t get me started on Blair, I just adore her. I’m not giving any of this this story away because you need to experience it. But as a parent or even a basic decent human being, some of these story is hard to taken. Never do you want to see a kid hurt. This book isn’t sunshine and rainbows. It’s not Cinderella and her prince. It’s real. It’s raw and it is everything.
October 30, 2020
How Nicole does this magic I'll never know but I am here to enjoy every bit. She brings the most unlikely people together, stuff them with emotions and then make them fall in love and meanwhile you are just looking at the book with an open mouth waiting to understand how it worked cuz it DOES work and beautifully so. And you fall in love with the Characters too. I could never have imagined Rhys and Blair as a couple when I read Redemption. But damn, their story is amazing.
Blair is a bitchy airhead with rich girl problems and daddy issues in the start. But underneath that lies a beautiful, strong, brave and the most mature women you can know. The way she is there for Rhys everytime he needs her and even at times he doesn't know he needs her was just so intimate and ❣️😭.
Rhys is an addict and abused foster kid but those titles don't define him. He suffers so much pain and it's a struggle for him to go through each day without that agony creeping in. There comes Blair, just barreling into his life for a tattoo. But will she be able to stay for more? Can she brave the storm going on inside Rhys? And even if she does, will she still be herself when it ends? What would happen with them to bring them so close together?
There are so many factors at play and you just get sucked into this story. Intricately woven and admirable 🖤loved it.
Blair is a bitchy airhead with rich girl problems and daddy issues in the start. But underneath that lies a beautiful, strong, brave and the most mature women you can know. The way she is there for Rhys everytime he needs her and even at times he doesn't know he needs her was just so intimate and ❣️😭.
Rhys is an addict and abused foster kid but those titles don't define him. He suffers so much pain and it's a struggle for him to go through each day without that agony creeping in. There comes Blair, just barreling into his life for a tattoo. But will she be able to stay for more? Can she brave the storm going on inside Rhys? And even if she does, will she still be herself when it ends? What would happen with them to bring them so close together?
There are so many factors at play and you just get sucked into this story. Intricately woven and admirable 🖤loved it.
November 13, 2020
Let Me Be Your Gravity
*arc generously provided by the promo team in exchange for an honest review*
What’s this book about? (I'm trying to give as little spoilers as possible)
He’s an addict. She’s a doll. They see each other, through the façade. When they get together, they can perform miracles.
Nicole, oh, Nicole. WHAT DID YOU DO! I related to these characters from their first page. It’s a relatively easy read that has you feeling all the feels. Blair and Rhys had endless chemistry. The story that Nicole came up with for these two was just amazing. It kept me on my toes. It was adorable but at the same time very dark and gritty. Nicole is an ANGST queen. I almost want to re-read it right away because I miss the characters. I legit had no issue with this book. I recommend it to those who love tortured heroes, heart-breaking storylines, and a slow-burn journey that is worth the patience.
ORIGINAL COMMENT
I know how to pick 'em!!!! Nicole did it AGAIN. This was lovely. Angsty. Emotional. Everything!
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October 30, 2020
This is not an easy read. This is definitely a story of the road less traveled. However, it is a story that needs to be read. This author does not make it easy on me. She continues to make me take stock of issues and think. I find myself after I thought about it I’m still reflecting on what I read and the issues she puts forth so tragically beautifully. Yes, tragedy helps make us who we become, just as beautiful elements in our life set us on a course. Out of our worst and darkness moments do we learn so much about ourselves. It’s how you decide to use that information that has shaped your life. In this case of Rhys and Blair it seems like they are destined to never get it right. Separately their lives have been their own personal hell. These two are like polarized magnets who are inexplicably drawn to each other while trying to stay apart. They communicate for what seems like forever with non verbal communication with limited physical attachment. However, their emotional connection is almost like mind reading to a point. Although Rhys seems to be the main character of this book I would say that Blair is in every way equal if not the stronger character in this book. Her heart is exposed and I found I wanted to wrap her in a warm hug. Believe me you want to devour Rhys. But Badass Barbie, reveals so much of herself. Seriously, in the beginning you may think boy she’s trashy but here’s the thing looks can be deceiving and usually are. Such is the case with both of these individuals. Sometimes our exterior (of what we show you) is the costume we wear to cover the scars of what lies underneath. It is our shield, our Excalibur!
You will fall in deep love with all these characters. You will feel, and you will hurt, and you will smile and you will cheer. I read this book in one night. I couldn’t stop. I wouldn’t stop. I want to divulge so much but it’s not fair to the author. You deserve to experience this for yourself. It’s is very cathartic. Unfortunately, it’s very current. But like the saying goes, “The more you read, the more you know”. Hopefully, this will be the case. What I can say and predict is that I didn’t want it to end and I don’t think you will either!
You will fall in deep love with all these characters. You will feel, and you will hurt, and you will smile and you will cheer. I read this book in one night. I couldn’t stop. I wouldn’t stop. I want to divulge so much but it’s not fair to the author. You deserve to experience this for yourself. It’s is very cathartic. Unfortunately, it’s very current. But like the saying goes, “The more you read, the more you know”. Hopefully, this will be the case. What I can say and predict is that I didn’t want it to end and I don’t think you will either!
November 4, 2020
4.5 stars!
My first Nicole Dykes book and definitely won't be my last! I need to go back and read the stories involving the other characters mentioned in this story.
Rhys is an addict and a victim of sexual abuse by his former foster parents. It's so bad that he doesn't allow people to touch him--even now as a twenty three year old man. He has a strange, sexual relationship with Blair, which continues when they both move to St. Louis. I loved Blair. She is initially portrayed as a tough, bitchy, woman with daddy issues. But, that is so not true. She has a heart of gold, which can be seen with Rhys and the situation they get themselves into with a foster child, Bree.
And Rhys...I just wanted to reach out and hug him (even though he wouldn't have liked it). His backstory is truly touching and horrific. After spiraling for some years, he is now trying to live is best life as he can.
This is a heavy and emotional read and I definitely won't forget it.
Thank you to Wildfire Marketing Solution and the author for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
My first Nicole Dykes book and definitely won't be my last! I need to go back and read the stories involving the other characters mentioned in this story.
Rhys is an addict and a victim of sexual abuse by his former foster parents. It's so bad that he doesn't allow people to touch him--even now as a twenty three year old man. He has a strange, sexual relationship with Blair, which continues when they both move to St. Louis. I loved Blair. She is initially portrayed as a tough, bitchy, woman with daddy issues. But, that is so not true. She has a heart of gold, which can be seen with Rhys and the situation they get themselves into with a foster child, Bree.
And Rhys...I just wanted to reach out and hug him (even though he wouldn't have liked it). His backstory is truly touching and horrific. After spiraling for some years, he is now trying to live is best life as he can.
This is a heavy and emotional read and I definitely won't forget it.
Thank you to Wildfire Marketing Solution and the author for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 1, 2020
I keep saying this and I'm gonna keep repeating it, Nicole hit it outta the park again!! There aren't enough stars to give this book Clarity deserves them all!! This is Rhys and Blair's story and it's not an easy journey but it's a journey worth taking. Rhys and Blair have been in past books of Nicole's and they weren't all that likable, Rhys was using drugs and alcohol to numb the pain from his past. In Clarity he's clean but he's still weighed down with the past and things that happened to him. Blair has her own demons and that may be in part what draws them to each other. Rhys is in such a dark place that he doesn't even really want Blair around yet he can't stay away either. Blair is a gorgeous bad ass who could have anyone she wanted yet she is drawn to Rhys's moody ass, and they are even thrown together more once Bree enters the picture. Will Bree's situation bring them closer together, will Blair be able to help Rhys overcome what he believes are deficiencies, and allow her to love him? You'll just have to read this amazingly heartbreaking book to find out if Nicole will put you back together or not!!
December 13, 2020
I was generously given an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
h: Blair
H: Rhys
(Dual POVs)
We meet Blair and Rhys in Redemption where Blair has a friends with benefits thing with Logan, and Rhys is a drug addict. By the end of Redemption, I was very intrigued about Rhys’ story and how he could redeem himself after the things he did so I was very eager to get my hands on this book! And once again, Nicole blew me away!
Rhys is probably the most tortured hero I have ever read about. I had my assumptions about his past, but I had no idea just how bad things were for him. Rhys has so much self loathing that it’s hard not to want to squeeze him and love him. Getting to know about his past and feeling the guilt he had for the things he’d done completely changed my feelings for him. I’m amazed how Nicole can make me fall head over heels for a character that did things in the previous book that I wasn’t a fan of.
Other than Rhys, I’m in love with Blair too! She’s caring, persistent, loyal, and has such a big heart with so much love to give. I totally dig the comparison of Blair to a badass Barbie! I wasn’t expecting the plot of this story and the way that these two characters were brought together, but I absolutely loved it. I thought it was beautiful how two souls that don’t trust anyone, slowly and painfully opened up to one another.
Nicole Dykes’ writing is just amazing. I’m beginning to be obsessed with the way that she pushes boundaries and discusses topics that are uncomfortable. After reading several of her books now, I’m learning that Nicole often takes me out of my comfort zone and rips my heart to shreds, but I can always count on her to put it back together! This book easily made it into my top ten favorites of this year and it will definitely have a place in my heart for quite some time!
Favorite quotes:
But I can’t touch Rhys. Not physically and not in any other fucking way. I thought I was hard to love, but Rhys is stone.” -Blair
”If we break, we’ll do it together, and then we’ll pick up the pieces.” -Blair
h: Blair
H: Rhys
(Dual POVs)
We meet Blair and Rhys in Redemption where Blair has a friends with benefits thing with Logan, and Rhys is a drug addict. By the end of Redemption, I was very intrigued about Rhys’ story and how he could redeem himself after the things he did so I was very eager to get my hands on this book! And once again, Nicole blew me away!
Rhys is probably the most tortured hero I have ever read about. I had my assumptions about his past, but I had no idea just how bad things were for him. Rhys has so much self loathing that it’s hard not to want to squeeze him and love him. Getting to know about his past and feeling the guilt he had for the things he’d done completely changed my feelings for him. I’m amazed how Nicole can make me fall head over heels for a character that did things in the previous book that I wasn’t a fan of.
Other than Rhys, I’m in love with Blair too! She’s caring, persistent, loyal, and has such a big heart with so much love to give. I totally dig the comparison of Blair to a badass Barbie! I wasn’t expecting the plot of this story and the way that these two characters were brought together, but I absolutely loved it. I thought it was beautiful how two souls that don’t trust anyone, slowly and painfully opened up to one another.
Nicole Dykes’ writing is just amazing. I’m beginning to be obsessed with the way that she pushes boundaries and discusses topics that are uncomfortable. After reading several of her books now, I’m learning that Nicole often takes me out of my comfort zone and rips my heart to shreds, but I can always count on her to put it back together! This book easily made it into my top ten favorites of this year and it will definitely have a place in my heart for quite some time!
Favorite quotes:
But I can’t touch Rhys. Not physically and not in any other fucking way. I thought I was hard to love, but Rhys is stone.” -Blair
”If we break, we’ll do it together, and then we’ll pick up the pieces.” -Blair
October 31, 2020
I genuinely loved this book. It's by no means a light hearted easy read. There is heartbreaking accounts of the true terror some kids experience in the foster system that go some way to explain why our Hero Rhys is the way he is.
Rhys is a big, hot, muscle ridden tattoo artist. All the makings for a typical romance book Alpha right? Yeah that's true but there are also some real deep seated issues festering within him. He used to dull the pain with drugs and alcohol, but 5 years sober hasn't provided him with any other tools to help him and he is drifting along in a world of agony.
Enter Blair, she is Barbie come to life, badass Barbie that is. Little rich girl with long blonde hair and big blue eyes the world should be her oyster. She could have her pick of men worshipping at her feet. The only problem is, her heart is drawn to the big broody a-hole that is Rhys.
The slow falling in love of these two as they navigate their way through many obstacles to become a family is an amazing to read. One of my best reads of 2020
Rhys is a big, hot, muscle ridden tattoo artist. All the makings for a typical romance book Alpha right? Yeah that's true but there are also some real deep seated issues festering within him. He used to dull the pain with drugs and alcohol, but 5 years sober hasn't provided him with any other tools to help him and he is drifting along in a world of agony.
Enter Blair, she is Barbie come to life, badass Barbie that is. Little rich girl with long blonde hair and big blue eyes the world should be her oyster. She could have her pick of men worshipping at her feet. The only problem is, her heart is drawn to the big broody a-hole that is Rhys.
The slow falling in love of these two as they navigate their way through many obstacles to become a family is an amazing to read. One of my best reads of 2020
November 3, 2020
4.5*
I was gifted an ARC for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this. We have seen Rhys and Blair in previous books and they seemed like an unlikely couple. But they just fit. Rhys has been through a lot and in this book we find out what happened and Blair helped him through. Together they were great and they wanted to do good in the world and they were able to. It won't always be plain sailing for this pair but together there isn't anything they can not conquer.
I was gifted an ARC for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this. We have seen Rhys and Blair in previous books and they seemed like an unlikely couple. But they just fit. Rhys has been through a lot and in this book we find out what happened and Blair helped him through. Together they were great and they wanted to do good in the world and they were able to. It won't always be plain sailing for this pair but together there isn't anything they can not conquer.
November 13, 2020
Wow. I knew this book was going to be heavy and emotional but it was also perfectly messy. It was heartbreaking and hopeful. This book was full of ups and downs! These characters have grown so much from the previous books they made appearances in. We find out who Rhys and Blair’s true selves are and it’s amazing. This book affected me emotionally in the way Colleen Hoover does. My heart was broken for them but I understood. I wanted to help them and care for them. I’m emotionally exhausted but also happy after reading this book. This is going down as a top read of 2020 for me.
January 26, 2021
I DIIIIIEEEE!
Oh my Rhys. My heart. My soul. And Blair. Badass Barbie. She was just what he needed.
This book was incredible. 100% unexpected. And absolutely everything I didn’t think I needed.
Nicole does it again. Heartbreak in the most beautiful fashion. Clarity is a must read.
Update to say the audiobook was so good!! 😍
Oh my Rhys. My heart. My soul. And Blair. Badass Barbie. She was just what he needed.
This book was incredible. 100% unexpected. And absolutely everything I didn’t think I needed.
Nicole does it again. Heartbreak in the most beautiful fashion. Clarity is a must read.
Update to say the audiobook was so good!! 😍
November 8, 2020
What an amazing story. I never expected to love Rhys and Blair as much as I did! Their story unfolded in such ways that kept my pages turning! Loved it!
November 13, 2020
Clarity by Nicole Dykes is about two people who live completely different lives, but underneath all their problems and woes, were able to come together and do something wonderful.
In this story, Blair is the rich, beautiful girl who often seeks attention from different men to fill an emotional void. But something about Rhys and his brooding manner has her drawn to him where she keeps coming back for more, even though she knows he won't give it to her.
Rhys is a former addict who is trying to get on the right course. With his demons constantly at the forefront of his mind, he finds it difficult to get close to the opposite sex.
When a young girl runs into his shop asking for help, he is reminded of his past and goes above and beyond to help the young girl. Enlisting the help of Blair, they go as far as living together so that it all looks good for welfare checks. As time goes on, living with Blair has Rhys opening up to her and slowly healing.
This book is so real which I appreciated. There are foster parents who take advantage of young vulnerable kids and kids who are too afraid to speak out in fear of repercussions. It is also real in the fact that there are good people who will help. Although it is sad that the number of kids in care seem to increase each year, I liked how the story shows that with a little help, a bad thing can be good and we should pay it forward.
In this story, Blair is the rich, beautiful girl who often seeks attention from different men to fill an emotional void. But something about Rhys and his brooding manner has her drawn to him where she keeps coming back for more, even though she knows he won't give it to her.
Rhys is a former addict who is trying to get on the right course. With his demons constantly at the forefront of his mind, he finds it difficult to get close to the opposite sex.
When a young girl runs into his shop asking for help, he is reminded of his past and goes above and beyond to help the young girl. Enlisting the help of Blair, they go as far as living together so that it all looks good for welfare checks. As time goes on, living with Blair has Rhys opening up to her and slowly healing.
This book is so real which I appreciated. There are foster parents who take advantage of young vulnerable kids and kids who are too afraid to speak out in fear of repercussions. It is also real in the fact that there are good people who will help. Although it is sad that the number of kids in care seem to increase each year, I liked how the story shows that with a little help, a bad thing can be good and we should pay it forward.
November 12, 2020
I have so many thoughts about clarity I want to first stop and thank nicole for writing a book that sheds light on a real life issue of toxic foster care situations and the scars they can leave people in them with.
Rhys is trying to figure out life without substance abuse and dealing with his trauma sober and clean.
Still blaming himself and feeling unworthy he convinces himself he will never deserve the nice things he has worked for.
But here comes Blair here to make him question himself slowly and surely about all the things he is capable of doing and that is all started when he needs blair to fake a relationship to gain foster parent status..
These two will do anything for Bree and they grow in the process it's truly a good story . I will say you do need to pay attention to the timeline in the beginning or you may find yourself confused.
But as you get to the end i don't think you could find disappointment in this story.
I give this book 4.5/5 🌟
Rhys is trying to figure out life without substance abuse and dealing with his trauma sober and clean.
Still blaming himself and feeling unworthy he convinces himself he will never deserve the nice things he has worked for.
But here comes Blair here to make him question himself slowly and surely about all the things he is capable of doing and that is all started when he needs blair to fake a relationship to gain foster parent status..
These two will do anything for Bree and they grow in the process it's truly a good story . I will say you do need to pay attention to the timeline in the beginning or you may find yourself confused.
But as you get to the end i don't think you could find disappointment in this story.
I give this book 4.5/5 🌟
November 13, 2020
In true Nicole Dykes fashion she tore me to shreds with this book before putting me all back together. For personal reasons this book hit home for me and I absolutely loved this story.
Rhys was a broken man questioning every feeling and every moment in his life. Blair was just floating along through life with no real purpose. Then in a random moment their lives are changed forever and they both have something worth fighting for. In this fight they find themselves and realize they are worth fighting for too. This beautiful story was heartbreaking but only because it was so very real. Loved it!
November 10, 2020
Clarity is a beautiful and heart wrenching story of a love that sees- a love between two totally unexpected people in a totally unexpected situation. This is an emotional story- full of dark and painful secrets and disturbing truths, a story both heartbreaking and hopeful. Nicole never shies away from telling stories that are messy, that are complicated and unpretty. Clarity most certainly isn’t a pretty or conventional story, but it is beautiful. Tender, raw, and intense-this is a story that you’ll be thinking about long after the final page.
Blair and Rhys have known each other for a while- in fact, they’ve even been intimate. But, they are still truly strangers- two polar opposites who somehow find solace in one another in ways neither truly understands. And, they don’t want to understand- because that would mean scratching under the surface, a surface both have carefully constructed to protect themselves- from each other, and from their own past pains or insecurities. But a series of serendipitous events find them in an unusual partnership- relying upon one another to protect an innocent girl. What begins as a fake arrangement of convenience soon transforms into something real- something undeniable but scary. Because Blair and Rhys truly SEE each other- they see beneath the protective veneer. And suddenly their journey isn’t just about protecting their foster child- suddenly this journey is about CLARITY- about both of them seeing themselves for the first time. Confronting the parts of themselves they’ve been too scared, or too blind, to see.
What I truly love about Nicole Dykes’ books is how messy she lets her characters be. They are imperfect, flawed. They are at times unlikeable, always complicated, and they make mistakes. But at their core- they are worthy. They are real- dimensional and complex. Their nuances make them relatable, and their hearts make them lovable. Rhys and Blair are both messy, both flawed. One is a recovering addict and frequent jerk who has reverted to a new method to numb his pain, to blur his reality- a cold, emotional detachment and relational solitude. Another is a seemingly vapid, rich Barbie who seeks validation and fulfillment in the arms of faceless and unsatisfying men. They are hard to get to know, encased in scars that have calcified to create a seemingly impenetrable shield. Classic opposites but who share more in common than they could know- because both are hurting, both are a bit lost, both need a purpose. Nicole’s characters are always more than they seem- and Rhys and Blair have so many layers. Page by page we peel them back to find two wounded but beautiful souls. Souls who love, souls who care, souls who are strong and resilient. They find a purpose, someone to fight for- but at first it is not each other. But then something magic happens- they create a genuine and deep connection, one they weren’t expecting.
But Nicole doesn’t let love “fix” them or their lives- love doesn’t heal them. Because let’s be real- that’s not how it works. Love isn’t a cure to trauma, pain, addiction, loss, or insecurity. Those feelings, those lived experiences don’t stop existing when someone else loves you- or even when you open up your own heart. In fact, often opening your heart exposes them further, brings the sad and troubled parts of ourselves to the surface. But love DOES help- because it provides you the empathy and safety you need to deal with your own stuff, bolsters your courage and commitment to wanting to be the best version of you- and that means facing up to the parts of yourself that hurt, that are closed off, that you’ve buried. SEEING you. And I truly love this about Nicole’s stories- the way she conveys love is real and authentic. In Clarity love isn’t a cure- here love doesn’t even come easily. It happens through intentional partnership, through mutual respect and care. Through real connection. Love does not “fix” Blair or Rhys. It doesn’t erase the storm inside them. But it is a catalyst- because love gives them someone who cares enough to weather the storm, someone who cares enough to see the best in them. Someone who sees them so clearly that they are forced to see themselves for the first time. And that creates something neither of them have had before- emotional safety. Vulnerability. HOPE. The clarity they need to face themselves, because they trust the other will help pick up the pieces when they do.
The concept of clarity isn’t just about visibility- it’s about FREEDOM. Freedom from ambiguity, from confusion. It is more than just SEEING, it is UNDERSTANDING what you see. Rhys and Blair’s connection gives them the power to see- the understanding they need to break down so they can start the journey of healing. And it is a journey- a process and not a destination. That is raw, that isn’t easy or neat, and it is WORK, but it is real. And that is the hallmark of Nicole Dykes’ story- the courage to tell a story that isn’t neat or even stereotypically romantic. Because it is real- it is compelling. And that reality doesn’t just help Blair and Rhys see, it helps us see too.
Blair and Rhys have known each other for a while- in fact, they’ve even been intimate. But, they are still truly strangers- two polar opposites who somehow find solace in one another in ways neither truly understands. And, they don’t want to understand- because that would mean scratching under the surface, a surface both have carefully constructed to protect themselves- from each other, and from their own past pains or insecurities. But a series of serendipitous events find them in an unusual partnership- relying upon one another to protect an innocent girl. What begins as a fake arrangement of convenience soon transforms into something real- something undeniable but scary. Because Blair and Rhys truly SEE each other- they see beneath the protective veneer. And suddenly their journey isn’t just about protecting their foster child- suddenly this journey is about CLARITY- about both of them seeing themselves for the first time. Confronting the parts of themselves they’ve been too scared, or too blind, to see.
What I truly love about Nicole Dykes’ books is how messy she lets her characters be. They are imperfect, flawed. They are at times unlikeable, always complicated, and they make mistakes. But at their core- they are worthy. They are real- dimensional and complex. Their nuances make them relatable, and their hearts make them lovable. Rhys and Blair are both messy, both flawed. One is a recovering addict and frequent jerk who has reverted to a new method to numb his pain, to blur his reality- a cold, emotional detachment and relational solitude. Another is a seemingly vapid, rich Barbie who seeks validation and fulfillment in the arms of faceless and unsatisfying men. They are hard to get to know, encased in scars that have calcified to create a seemingly impenetrable shield. Classic opposites but who share more in common than they could know- because both are hurting, both are a bit lost, both need a purpose. Nicole’s characters are always more than they seem- and Rhys and Blair have so many layers. Page by page we peel them back to find two wounded but beautiful souls. Souls who love, souls who care, souls who are strong and resilient. They find a purpose, someone to fight for- but at first it is not each other. But then something magic happens- they create a genuine and deep connection, one they weren’t expecting.
But Nicole doesn’t let love “fix” them or their lives- love doesn’t heal them. Because let’s be real- that’s not how it works. Love isn’t a cure to trauma, pain, addiction, loss, or insecurity. Those feelings, those lived experiences don’t stop existing when someone else loves you- or even when you open up your own heart. In fact, often opening your heart exposes them further, brings the sad and troubled parts of ourselves to the surface. But love DOES help- because it provides you the empathy and safety you need to deal with your own stuff, bolsters your courage and commitment to wanting to be the best version of you- and that means facing up to the parts of yourself that hurt, that are closed off, that you’ve buried. SEEING you. And I truly love this about Nicole’s stories- the way she conveys love is real and authentic. In Clarity love isn’t a cure- here love doesn’t even come easily. It happens through intentional partnership, through mutual respect and care. Through real connection. Love does not “fix” Blair or Rhys. It doesn’t erase the storm inside them. But it is a catalyst- because love gives them someone who cares enough to weather the storm, someone who cares enough to see the best in them. Someone who sees them so clearly that they are forced to see themselves for the first time. And that creates something neither of them have had before- emotional safety. Vulnerability. HOPE. The clarity they need to face themselves, because they trust the other will help pick up the pieces when they do.
The concept of clarity isn’t just about visibility- it’s about FREEDOM. Freedom from ambiguity, from confusion. It is more than just SEEING, it is UNDERSTANDING what you see. Rhys and Blair’s connection gives them the power to see- the understanding they need to break down so they can start the journey of healing. And it is a journey- a process and not a destination. That is raw, that isn’t easy or neat, and it is WORK, but it is real. And that is the hallmark of Nicole Dykes’ story- the courage to tell a story that isn’t neat or even stereotypically romantic. Because it is real- it is compelling. And that reality doesn’t just help Blair and Rhys see, it helps us see too.
October 30, 2020
Rhys is a tough character to appreciate. If you've read Nicole's previous books, you know he is sullen, angry and can be abusive. He is haunted by his past and how he's treated those who love him.
Blair is a Barbie type with a penchant for cruelty, to cover up her own pain. I honestly didn't like her based on her appearance in the other books. Nicole won me over with this story.
The on again off again cycle between these two characters in previous books was maddening. Her storyline was simply well written. I could not put it down.
I love how Nicole managed to make me see the boy inside the brooding man. How she took a potentially awful theme and helped all of the characters find the good in others as well as themselves. I adore Bree, Rhett and Fletcher.
Nicole managed to make me fall for a character I found beyond redemption, proving love can conquer all. Flaws included.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Blair is a Barbie type with a penchant for cruelty, to cover up her own pain. I honestly didn't like her based on her appearance in the other books. Nicole won me over with this story.
The on again off again cycle between these two characters in previous books was maddening. Her storyline was simply well written. I could not put it down.
I love how Nicole managed to make me see the boy inside the brooding man. How she took a potentially awful theme and helped all of the characters find the good in others as well as themselves. I adore Bree, Rhett and Fletcher.
Nicole managed to make me fall for a character I found beyond redemption, proving love can conquer all. Flaws included.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2020
‘𝙏𝙖𝙡𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚. 𝙈𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚. 𝙁*** 𝙢𝙚. 𝙎𝙘𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙠𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚. 𝘾𝙧𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚. 𝘽𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚. 𝙎𝙤 𝙬𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙜𝙤 𝙖𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚.”
I am such a believer in an opposites attract approach to romance. Someone who rounds out what’s been brought to the table, drawing the eye to the dynamic between lovers.
Rhys & Blair were just that. Complete opposites. Barbie & the boy from the wrong side of the tracks. You just know it’s going to be something to talk about.
Teaming them up, tackling the subject they did, it really was a perfect match. They needed one another to survive the storm and heal from the past and shed light on their futures.
I loved them so much. ALL of them.
I am such a believer in an opposites attract approach to romance. Someone who rounds out what’s been brought to the table, drawing the eye to the dynamic between lovers.
Rhys & Blair were just that. Complete opposites. Barbie & the boy from the wrong side of the tracks. You just know it’s going to be something to talk about.
Teaming them up, tackling the subject they did, it really was a perfect match. They needed one another to survive the storm and heal from the past and shed light on their futures.
I loved them so much. ALL of them.
January 31, 2021
5 stars audio
4 stars story.
4 stars story.
November 3, 2020
Clarity by Nicole Dykes
𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯, 𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦.
*~*~*~*
𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕖: Rhys is a complicated man with a past that haunts him. Blair sees the demons in his eyes and from Day One wants to walk on the edge and fall into all that Rhys has to offer.
For years she finds herself returning to Rhys, despite the fact that he can only offer her bits of what she deserves...until the day comes that Rhys needs her for more than just her body. He needs a live-in girlfriend in order to help save a foster child who reminds him far too much of himself.
Can Rhys continue to keep Blair at arm’s length while playing house? Or can Blair help Rhys heal from the pain of his past?
*~*~*~*
𝕊𝕖𝕩 𝕊𝕔𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕤: This. Book. The scenes are restrained, yet out of control HOT. The talk is dirty, but there’s so much depth to what’s being said. I LOVE that Blair is a woman who knows what she wants and what she deserves. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5 for frequency, variety, and all the alpha goodness!
*~*~*~*
【$】: FREE in KU and only 99cents to own for always! I’m obsessed with everything this author writes—she is the queen of angst and will kill you oh-so-sweetly with every book. Clarity is no different. I ACHED for Rhys and Blair—two broken souls who take their tattered hearts and piece them back together by loving each other and their ragtag family. They are both warriors who learn that you don’t always need to fight your own battles, your loved ones will always be there to help you. I couldn’t love this book more if I tried—it’s THAT good. Go for the DL!
𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦 𝘢𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯, 𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘤𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘴𝘩𝘦’𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘳 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦.
*~*~*~*
𝕊𝕥𝕠𝕣𝕪𝕝𝕚𝕟𝕖: Rhys is a complicated man with a past that haunts him. Blair sees the demons in his eyes and from Day One wants to walk on the edge and fall into all that Rhys has to offer.
For years she finds herself returning to Rhys, despite the fact that he can only offer her bits of what she deserves...until the day comes that Rhys needs her for more than just her body. He needs a live-in girlfriend in order to help save a foster child who reminds him far too much of himself.
Can Rhys continue to keep Blair at arm’s length while playing house? Or can Blair help Rhys heal from the pain of his past?
*~*~*~*
𝕊𝕖𝕩 𝕊𝕔𝕖𝕟𝕖𝕤: This. Book. The scenes are restrained, yet out of control HOT. The talk is dirty, but there’s so much depth to what’s being said. I LOVE that Blair is a woman who knows what she wants and what she deserves. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥/5 for frequency, variety, and all the alpha goodness!
*~*~*~*
【$】: FREE in KU and only 99cents to own for always! I’m obsessed with everything this author writes—she is the queen of angst and will kill you oh-so-sweetly with every book. Clarity is no different. I ACHED for Rhys and Blair—two broken souls who take their tattered hearts and piece them back together by loving each other and their ragtag family. They are both warriors who learn that you don’t always need to fight your own battles, your loved ones will always be there to help you. I couldn’t love this book more if I tried—it’s THAT good. Go for the DL!
November 13, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up! This was my first book by Nicole Dykes and I am definitely looking forward to reading more from her.
Rhys and Blair have a history but it's not a simple one. Probably because Rhys is not a simple man. But no man would be simple with a heart breaking past like his. He is fighting his demons daily and just trying to live another day. Blair is the perfect rich girl barbie with an attitude or so it seems. She has her sights set on Rhys and won't take no for an answer.
I don't want to give anything away but I was so pleasantly surprised by Blair and Rhys. Their characters turn out to be so much more than whats on the surface and their relationship is no different. They end up making such a solid team and have such a complicated yet wonderful story. They find themselves in a sort of fake dating relationship or relationship of convenience but it's so much more than that and the reason they come together ends up being the thing to save them both!
I loved how quick and easy it was to get into this story and see things unfold. I loved the chemistry between the characters and the way they both developed. This book drew me in and kept me haning on. I only wish it were longer.
Rhys and Blair have a history but it's not a simple one. Probably because Rhys is not a simple man. But no man would be simple with a heart breaking past like his. He is fighting his demons daily and just trying to live another day. Blair is the perfect rich girl barbie with an attitude or so it seems. She has her sights set on Rhys and won't take no for an answer.
I don't want to give anything away but I was so pleasantly surprised by Blair and Rhys. Their characters turn out to be so much more than whats on the surface and their relationship is no different. They end up making such a solid team and have such a complicated yet wonderful story. They find themselves in a sort of fake dating relationship or relationship of convenience but it's so much more than that and the reason they come together ends up being the thing to save them both!
I loved how quick and easy it was to get into this story and see things unfold. I loved the chemistry between the characters and the way they both developed. This book drew me in and kept me haning on. I only wish it were longer.
November 7, 2020
Omg this was heart breaking and beautiful at the same time!
Rhys is so torn and broken. He was raised in foster care where he had a very terrible, life changing experience. This has molded him into who he is now. Damaged and unable to endure touch or affection. Not without numbing himself with drugs and alcohol. But, things are different with Blair. She allows him to take just what he needs from her and not ask for more than what he can give her... until she no longer can.
When a young girl runs into Rhys’s tattoo shop scared and begging him to hide her, he immediately sees a kindred spirit within Bree and vows to do whatever he can to protect her from the foster family she is running from. Even if that includes entering into a fake live-in relationship with Blair for the sake of a healthy home for Bree.
During the time they all spend together, Rhys struggles to come to terms with his past and allowing Blair to really be with him.
This was amazing! Rhys has the biggest heart and will stop at nothing to protect this sweet girl from the evil that she was living with. And the relationship he has with Bree is so adorable.
Thank you so much to the author for my gifted arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
Rhys is so torn and broken. He was raised in foster care where he had a very terrible, life changing experience. This has molded him into who he is now. Damaged and unable to endure touch or affection. Not without numbing himself with drugs and alcohol. But, things are different with Blair. She allows him to take just what he needs from her and not ask for more than what he can give her... until she no longer can.
When a young girl runs into Rhys’s tattoo shop scared and begging him to hide her, he immediately sees a kindred spirit within Bree and vows to do whatever he can to protect her from the foster family she is running from. Even if that includes entering into a fake live-in relationship with Blair for the sake of a healthy home for Bree.
During the time they all spend together, Rhys struggles to come to terms with his past and allowing Blair to really be with him.
This was amazing! Rhys has the biggest heart and will stop at nothing to protect this sweet girl from the evil that she was living with. And the relationship he has with Bree is so adorable.
Thank you so much to the author for my gifted arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
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