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The Hollow #1
Kisser of Death
One accident.
Two men.
Almost three years of despair.
Four beating hearts growing in pain.
Five lives forever changed.
Everything fell apart in the blink of an eye.
These days my own misery keeps me company.
I never thought this would be me—a twenty-four-year-old—stuck in a dead-end relationship.
Gone are the thrilling adventures with Harvey Stark.
Gone is his smile.
Gone is the sight of his dimples and the sparkle in his bright blue eyes.
He’s changed into a hollow version of himself and I’m just a shadow following him around our home.
Then I meet my new boss at a firm in Downtown Chicago. Damon Dreygon challenges me in ways I never knew existed and makes me believe in myself again. Our souls match instantly, and meeting Damon feels like a step toward peace.
Except it’s not. Because everyone grieves differently.
While one man refuses to touch me, the other won’t love me.
And I’m crawling through the crippling chaos, barely holding on . . .
Two men.
Almost three years of despair.
Four beating hearts growing in pain.
Five lives forever changed.
Everything fell apart in the blink of an eye.
These days my own misery keeps me company.
I never thought this would be me—a twenty-four-year-old—stuck in a dead-end relationship.
Gone are the thrilling adventures with Harvey Stark.
Gone is his smile.
Gone is the sight of his dimples and the sparkle in his bright blue eyes.
He’s changed into a hollow version of himself and I’m just a shadow following him around our home.
Then I meet my new boss at a firm in Downtown Chicago. Damon Dreygon challenges me in ways I never knew existed and makes me believe in myself again. Our souls match instantly, and meeting Damon feels like a step toward peace.
Except it’s not. Because everyone grieves differently.
While one man refuses to touch me, the other won’t love me.
And I’m crawling through the crippling chaos, barely holding on . . .
322 pages, ebook
Published October 19, 2021
131 people are currently reading
4131 people want to read
About the author
M.H.B.
6 books143 followersM . H . B . graduated law from a Canadian University and loves spending time with her partner and her German Shepherd Dog. She has a passion for animals and enjoys the simple things in life: books, music, chocolate, sunny days and overall wellness. When she is not writing, her mind is in another world, with a book in hand.
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Email: mhb.author@hotmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
June 12, 2024
4.75 stars!
This was amazing 👏🏻 it was like 50 shades just more depressing and less BDSM.
The love triangle, the toxic relationship.. the sadness and unnecessary guilt that she has for the whole thing.
This book was so very realistic, it was heartbreaking with little specks of happiness heaped with even more sadness.
The FMC is such a sensitive soul who has dealt with so much and has kept all the sad inside. She's so strong, a weaker person would have perished or at the very least walked away.. but she stayed, and why? Because of a little hope.
I can not wait to read the second book to this.
I do find the "twist" to be kind of obvious but it's still such a great book!
Definitely would recommend!
This was amazing 👏🏻 it was like 50 shades just more depressing and less BDSM.
The love triangle, the toxic relationship.. the sadness and unnecessary guilt that she has for the whole thing.
This book was so very realistic, it was heartbreaking with little specks of happiness heaped with even more sadness.
The FMC is such a sensitive soul who has dealt with so much and has kept all the sad inside. She's so strong, a weaker person would have perished or at the very least walked away.. but she stayed, and why? Because of a little hope.
I can not wait to read the second book to this.
I do find the "twist" to be kind of obvious but it's still such a great book!
Definitely would recommend!
October 13, 2021
This is a solemn read. It's full of angst. It's a heavy read. It ends with a 'To Be Continued" so it's not the complete story. It's not really a biting your nails kind of cliffhanger, but it does leave open ended. There are the three main characters. Gemma, who is not living her life anymore. She is a shell of a person after an accident she and her boyfriend suffered from. Harvey, once a bright and lively person who enjoyed action alongside Gemma, lost a piece of himself in that accident. He's been pushing her away ever since, though she refuses to give up on them. Then there is Damon. Her new boss, and a person who can help her live her life again, but he refuses to give her everything. This 'love' triangle has Gemma second guessing almost every decision she makes. The story is very heartfelt, though it isn't a pretty story. There's a lot of emotional pain. It's a slow burn type of story, and I don't mean any romance that may be involved, but the actual story itself. It's well written. And while it's a slow story, it keeps you enthralled and wanting to find out what comes next. While this is not really a dark read, it's not light-hearted or full of cheer. There are hints at secrets, that will most likely be revealed further down the road in the series. There is some sexual content, and some strong language that would deem this suitable for mature readers.
*I received an ARC of this book.
*I received an ARC of this book.
October 24, 2021
As a person who reads lots of romance novels I must say that this release managed to do something different, it managed to set itself apart from other books through its unconventional storyline and the heavy emotions being dealt with. After a tragic accident, life changes irrevocably for two people who seem to have lost their way…as a couple and as individuals. When a new man enters the picture things take an even more unexpected turn in a story that will take readers on a journey of emotional twists, turns, and secrets just waiting to be revealed.
When the story starts Gemma and Harvey are a happy couple living life to the fullest, side by side they’re perfectly in sync. After the accident though, one which leaves Harvey in a wheelchair, everything changes between them. Harvey’s no longer the loving man full of life who once stood by Gemma unconditionally, he’s now an angry and bitter man who constantly denies her love. As a disabled person myself I could understand his feelings, his anger over the changes to his life. But he’s definitely a difficult character to warm up to because of it, a difficult man for Gemma to still care about at times since he does nothing but push her away. Gemma still loves Harvey, but she misses what they once had between them. She misses being told how much she’s loved and longs to be loved once again. At the same time she’s riddled with guilt, hating herself for wanting what they once had again or giving up and finding those feelings elsewhere in a journey that left her full of emotional conflicts and indecision throughout the second half of the book. While Harvey and Gemma are waging war within themselves, she comes into contact with the sexy and mysterious Damon. Readers don’t learn much about Damon in this book, other than he’s an endless temptation for Gemma. As her new boss, Damon reintroduces her to living life to the fullest, shows her the excitement that she’s been missing since the accident. But he refuses to give her anything more as he appears to be a man incapable of giving love. The connection between these two is sizzling, but is Gemma really willing to take a chance on a man who claims he won’t ever love her or will she try to reclaim the love she once shared with Harvey?
From the first page to the last this is a book full of angst, a slow burn romance buried in a love triangle riddled with emotional twists and turns and secrets. It’s a heavy read, a read that pulls at the heartstrings with no easy answers. The characters aren’t always likable but they are compelling and watching them navigate their rocky existence kept me glued to the pages. Overall this is a angsty romance with a lot of story left to tell, and with the promise of more to come, I’m looking forward to where life takes these three people next.
When the story starts Gemma and Harvey are a happy couple living life to the fullest, side by side they’re perfectly in sync. After the accident though, one which leaves Harvey in a wheelchair, everything changes between them. Harvey’s no longer the loving man full of life who once stood by Gemma unconditionally, he’s now an angry and bitter man who constantly denies her love. As a disabled person myself I could understand his feelings, his anger over the changes to his life. But he’s definitely a difficult character to warm up to because of it, a difficult man for Gemma to still care about at times since he does nothing but push her away. Gemma still loves Harvey, but she misses what they once had between them. She misses being told how much she’s loved and longs to be loved once again. At the same time she’s riddled with guilt, hating herself for wanting what they once had again or giving up and finding those feelings elsewhere in a journey that left her full of emotional conflicts and indecision throughout the second half of the book. While Harvey and Gemma are waging war within themselves, she comes into contact with the sexy and mysterious Damon. Readers don’t learn much about Damon in this book, other than he’s an endless temptation for Gemma. As her new boss, Damon reintroduces her to living life to the fullest, shows her the excitement that she’s been missing since the accident. But he refuses to give her anything more as he appears to be a man incapable of giving love. The connection between these two is sizzling, but is Gemma really willing to take a chance on a man who claims he won’t ever love her or will she try to reclaim the love she once shared with Harvey?
From the first page to the last this is a book full of angst, a slow burn romance buried in a love triangle riddled with emotional twists and turns and secrets. It’s a heavy read, a read that pulls at the heartstrings with no easy answers. The characters aren’t always likable but they are compelling and watching them navigate their rocky existence kept me glued to the pages. Overall this is a angsty romance with a lot of story left to tell, and with the promise of more to come, I’m looking forward to where life takes these three people next.
September 18, 2024
4.2🌟
Honestly I had no idea what to expect when I first opened this book.. It was my first time reading anything by M.H.B and wow was I pleasantly surprised! The writing style was easy to follow and made it easy to immerse myself into the story.. From the toxic relationship the FMC was stuck in, down to the spicy love triangle, I was completely engrossed the entire time. The author does an amazing job at captivating the emotions that go hand in hand with pain, heartbreak, grief, love, and lust. This book is just a roller coaster of emotions and I want MORE!! The only thing that prevented me from giving 5 stars was the pacing of the story. At some times it seemed too rushed or too slow, and could be predictable. Overall I do recommend this for an emotional read!
Tropes:
•Love triangle
•Office romance
•Slow burn
•SOOO MUCH ANGST
•Millionaire boss man
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest ARC review
Honestly I had no idea what to expect when I first opened this book.. It was my first time reading anything by M.H.B and wow was I pleasantly surprised! The writing style was easy to follow and made it easy to immerse myself into the story.. From the toxic relationship the FMC was stuck in, down to the spicy love triangle, I was completely engrossed the entire time. The author does an amazing job at captivating the emotions that go hand in hand with pain, heartbreak, grief, love, and lust. This book is just a roller coaster of emotions and I want MORE!! The only thing that prevented me from giving 5 stars was the pacing of the story. At some times it seemed too rushed or too slow, and could be predictable. Overall I do recommend this for an emotional read!
Tropes:
•Love triangle
•Office romance
•Slow burn
•SOOO MUCH ANGST
•Millionaire boss man
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest ARC review
September 17, 2024
4.5 ⭐
1.5 🌶️
Tropes: Love triangle, flashbacks, duology/cliffhanger
Normally I would give a short summation of the book before jumping into my thoughts/opinions but I didn’t read any reviews of this book beforehand, nor is the official blurb very explanatory and I think blind is probably the best way to go into this book. It’s not a unique storyline but I genuinely think that if I’d known more of the plot I wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much.
That being said: this was SUCH a satisfying read. I devoured it in one day. I work from home and homeschool but I could not put this down-every time I had a break I was reading a few pages. In fact, I was so obsessed with it, I requested the ARC of the second book before I’d finished this one.
The writing is so well done. It’s a very emotional book, with so much angst and tension (my fave!) that I genuinely felt like I was experiencing everything that Gemma was.
The only thing keeping this from being a 5 star read was the constant use of “my sex” to reference her lady parts.
I HIGHLY recommend this book (unless you don’t like angsty characters)
I received an advanced copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1.5 🌶️
Tropes: Love triangle, flashbacks, duology/cliffhanger
Normally I would give a short summation of the book before jumping into my thoughts/opinions but I didn’t read any reviews of this book beforehand, nor is the official blurb very explanatory and I think blind is probably the best way to go into this book. It’s not a unique storyline but I genuinely think that if I’d known more of the plot I wouldn’t have enjoyed it as much.
That being said: this was SUCH a satisfying read. I devoured it in one day. I work from home and homeschool but I could not put this down-every time I had a break I was reading a few pages. In fact, I was so obsessed with it, I requested the ARC of the second book before I’d finished this one.
The writing is so well done. It’s a very emotional book, with so much angst and tension (my fave!) that I genuinely felt like I was experiencing everything that Gemma was.
The only thing keeping this from being a 5 star read was the constant use of “my sex” to reference her lady parts.
I HIGHLY recommend this book (unless you don’t like angsty characters)
I received an advanced copy of this book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 30, 2024
"It’s as if I’m about to go on a trip to the moon after jumping from a plane." 💕
This was a really good read, it was an ARC read for me and I went in not really sure what to expect but it grabbed hold of me and I didn't want to put it down. It really made me question my morals when I spent a lot of the book willing Gemma to have the affair… I didn't know I'd approve of that, but it's what I really wanted for her and what I really wanted to read. Harvey made me so mad at points but I also hurt for him so it really did leave me pretty torn.
I don't particularly enjoy time jumps so this was a bit annoying as it jumped back and forth between the past and the present, but it was necessary so that we knew how the accident happened. This book ended on a cliffhanger, but thankfully I have the next one already queued up and will be reading that next. I think I see a twist coming and will be pleased with myself if I am right and worked it out…
This was a really good read, it was an ARC read for me and I went in not really sure what to expect but it grabbed hold of me and I didn't want to put it down. It really made me question my morals when I spent a lot of the book willing Gemma to have the affair… I didn't know I'd approve of that, but it's what I really wanted for her and what I really wanted to read. Harvey made me so mad at points but I also hurt for him so it really did leave me pretty torn.
I don't particularly enjoy time jumps so this was a bit annoying as it jumped back and forth between the past and the present, but it was necessary so that we knew how the accident happened. This book ended on a cliffhanger, but thankfully I have the next one already queued up and will be reading that next. I think I see a twist coming and will be pleased with myself if I am right and worked it out…
January 19, 2025
○ Emotional
○ Disability
○ Can We Make It Work
○ Grumpy Male Lead
○ Hopeful and Loving Female Lead
○ Cliffhanger
All I can say about this book is WOW, this book made me feel the heartbreak, sadness and loneliness that Gemma was feeling.
Harvey's accident is terrible for sure, but he treated Gemma so badly afterwards and then when she starts finally pulling away, only then is he willing to try to make things work. Damon is so broken on the inside and tells Gemma that he's no good for her, but she still falls for him.
Gemma wants so badly to make things work with Harvey, but he spent so much time pushing her away that she's finally over it. But, when she starts to move on to Damon, he also pushes her away and she feels like she has no idea what to do when it comes to either of these guys.
○ Disability
○ Can We Make It Work
○ Grumpy Male Lead
○ Hopeful and Loving Female Lead
○ Cliffhanger
All I can say about this book is WOW, this book made me feel the heartbreak, sadness and loneliness that Gemma was feeling.
Harvey's accident is terrible for sure, but he treated Gemma so badly afterwards and then when she starts finally pulling away, only then is he willing to try to make things work. Damon is so broken on the inside and tells Gemma that he's no good for her, but she still falls for him.
Gemma wants so badly to make things work with Harvey, but he spent so much time pushing her away that she's finally over it. But, when she starts to move on to Damon, he also pushes her away and she feels like she has no idea what to do when it comes to either of these guys.
September 23, 2024
2.5 ⭐️⭐️
This book wasn’t for me. I didn’t feel any love between Damon and Gemma, their relationship felt very shallow. I would have liked more interaction with Harvey. I also found it weird that most characters were super non chalant about cheating. I needed more of an emotional investment.
Things I liked ✨
- the flashbacks
- workplace setting
This book wasn’t for me. I didn’t feel any love between Damon and Gemma, their relationship felt very shallow. I would have liked more interaction with Harvey. I also found it weird that most characters were super non chalant about cheating. I needed more of an emotional investment.
Things I liked ✨
- the flashbacks
- workplace setting
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January 12, 2022FREE today (January 06, 2022) on Amazon.
November 19, 2024
Buckle up, because Silent Screams is here to drag your emotions through the mud, stomp on them, and then somehow make you beg for more. This book isn’t just angsty—it’s a full-blown symphony of heartbreak, longing, and the kind of messy, complicated relationships that make you want to yell, “Girl, choose yourself first for once!”
Our protagonist is caught in a post-trauma love triangle (or is it a wreckage?), stuck between Harvey Stark, her broken shell of a boyfriend, and Damon Dreygon, her enigmatic new boss who somehow manages to be both a lifeline and a red flag. Harvey is a walking tragedy—blue eyes, dimples, and all—and watching him grieve is like slow-motion heartbreak. But Damon? Damon is the temptation, the spark, and let’s be honest, the chaos you know you shouldn’t touch but do anyway.
The book thrives on its raw, visceral portrayal of grief and the messy ways people try to crawl out of it. M.H.B. doesn’t sugarcoat the pain, and it makes every moment feel gut-wrenchingly real. But let’s not pretend this is a walk in the park—our girl is juggling two men who are emotionally unavailable in entirely different ways, and you’ll find yourself wishing she’d take a spa day instead of diving deeper into this mess.
And yet, you can’t look away. The tension between these three characters is magnetic, the pacing keeps you on edge, and the writing strikes just the right balance between poetic and punchy. Sure, some of the drama feels a little over the top, but honestly, that’s part of the charm.
Final verdict? 8/10 for emotional devastation, sizzling chemistry, and a heroine who needs a hug and a therapist. If you like your romances dark, your characters messy, and your heartbreak lingering, Silent Screams will have you screaming right along with it.
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February 7, 2025Holy rollercoaster of emotions! This non-linear tangled web of lives has grabbed my brain and had it me in a vice to the end. I would be distraught if the second book wasn't already available, the emotional cliffhanger - ugh!
Silent Screams by H.M.B. is a tragic tale of young adult love faced with the devastating trials of life. How a single decision and moment can catastrophically alter and implode your life. It's told in single POV of Gemma as she navigates post traumatic accident with her boyfriend Harvey. Throw in life changing events of career development and some office spice, and you have gripping tale that makes the pages fly by.
**Spoilers ahead**
This was my first cheater romance, and man did it test my moral compass, but in the best ways. My heart cracked opened for Gemma at each rejection of Harvey, and you can truly feel her pain and frustration. The insecurities she felt and what lead her to Damon's arms.
I loved all the angsty slow burn pull and push of Damon and Gemma, it reawakened her from the dead life she was stuck in with Harvey. I don't condone cheating, and I so wish she would have confronted him, but I'm right there on Gemma's side - she had to choose her happiness after all that time, she bared all of herself to Harvey and he just tossed it out.
I don't at all agree that she's the villain in this story, I mean I get it we're in her POV and I would be thinking the same, BUT Harvey is the one who pushed her away. To me he cheated first, emotionally - and just like scars the emotional ones cut the deepest and take the longest to heal.
Silent Screams by H.M.B. is a tragic tale of young adult love faced with the devastating trials of life. How a single decision and moment can catastrophically alter and implode your life. It's told in single POV of Gemma as she navigates post traumatic accident with her boyfriend Harvey. Throw in life changing events of career development and some office spice, and you have gripping tale that makes the pages fly by.
**Spoilers ahead**
This was my first cheater romance, and man did it test my moral compass, but in the best ways. My heart cracked opened for Gemma at each rejection of Harvey, and you can truly feel her pain and frustration. The insecurities she felt and what lead her to Damon's arms.
I loved all the angsty slow burn pull and push of Damon and Gemma, it reawakened her from the dead life she was stuck in with Harvey. I don't condone cheating, and I so wish she would have confronted him, but I'm right there on Gemma's side - she had to choose her happiness after all that time, she bared all of herself to Harvey and he just tossed it out.
I don't at all agree that she's the villain in this story, I mean I get it we're in her POV and I would be thinking the same, BUT Harvey is the one who pushed her away. To me he cheated first, emotionally - and just like scars the emotional ones cut the deepest and take the longest to heal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
THE SILENT SCREAMS by MHB 🌟🌟🌟
The Silent Screams is the first (#1) book in MHB’s THE HOLLOWS series
***I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest, unbiased review. All thoughts are my own.***
Gemma Ackerman is stuck in purgatory, well she’s certainly not living. An accident altered the blissful life Gemma shared with her boyfriend Harvey Stark, altered it irrevocably. Two and a half years later she’s desperate to feel, feel- ANYTHING. Stuck in a loveless relationship, tired of fighting for any scrap of attention, Gemma misses the woman she once was, misses the thrills, the adventure. When the opportunity of an exciting new job lands in her lap, she seizes it with both hands. Then she meets her new boss.
Damon Dreygon is pure ice and fire. Rude, belligerent and closed off, he’s not the easiest person to work for, but still Gemma recognises the undeniable spark of attraction. Despite Damon making it clear that he’s not looking for a relationship the couple flirt with their attraction, both fighting this inevitably doomed connection.
As things go from bad to worse at home, Gemma increasingly desires the attention Damon gives her, however meagre. Stuck between two men, neither of which will give her what she needs, Gemma’s life is about to implode….
§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§
This was the first of MHB’s books I have read and I really enjoyed it. It’s not a flowers and sunshine kind of book, it’s gritty, painful and at times dark. The premise of the the story is really interesting and certainly made me think. The author really gets into the character’s deepest thoughts and feelings and writes them well. It’s the typical love story with a twist and the characters are believable. Written from Gemma’s perspective and dipping at times into past events, the reader can’t help but sympathise (and at times despair) with all three of the main characters. Whilst you understand each character’s actions you don’t necessarily agree with them and at times I was screaming internally at them ‘DON’T DO/SAY THAT!!’. At times it’s an uncomfortable and frustrating read as you can see them falling apart but (obviously 🙄) can’t do anything about it. All this to say that it really drew me in (can you tell? 😂) and had me invested in the outcome, and therein lies the problem for me….
At the end of the book nothing is resolved, you get no answers, you’re left dangling 😔. This book is good, REALLY good, so good that I know I’m probably going to be searching out the next book in the series as I want to know what happens next. I say probably because if I read the next book and STILL nothing is resolved I’m going to be really annoyed. Hence the 3 🌟 review. I desperately wanted to give it four stars but the ending spoilt it for me, it felt like diving into a jam donut, savouring the smell, delighting in the delicious dough, only to find they forgot to put the jam in it. I feel cheated!
If you like thought provoking, emotional rollercoaster reads then this one’s for you! Enjoy! ☺️
The Silent Screams is the first (#1) book in MHB’s THE HOLLOWS series
***I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest, unbiased review. All thoughts are my own.***
Gemma Ackerman is stuck in purgatory, well she’s certainly not living. An accident altered the blissful life Gemma shared with her boyfriend Harvey Stark, altered it irrevocably. Two and a half years later she’s desperate to feel, feel- ANYTHING. Stuck in a loveless relationship, tired of fighting for any scrap of attention, Gemma misses the woman she once was, misses the thrills, the adventure. When the opportunity of an exciting new job lands in her lap, she seizes it with both hands. Then she meets her new boss.
Damon Dreygon is pure ice and fire. Rude, belligerent and closed off, he’s not the easiest person to work for, but still Gemma recognises the undeniable spark of attraction. Despite Damon making it clear that he’s not looking for a relationship the couple flirt with their attraction, both fighting this inevitably doomed connection.
As things go from bad to worse at home, Gemma increasingly desires the attention Damon gives her, however meagre. Stuck between two men, neither of which will give her what she needs, Gemma’s life is about to implode….
§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§§
This was the first of MHB’s books I have read and I really enjoyed it. It’s not a flowers and sunshine kind of book, it’s gritty, painful and at times dark. The premise of the the story is really interesting and certainly made me think. The author really gets into the character’s deepest thoughts and feelings and writes them well. It’s the typical love story with a twist and the characters are believable. Written from Gemma’s perspective and dipping at times into past events, the reader can’t help but sympathise (and at times despair) with all three of the main characters. Whilst you understand each character’s actions you don’t necessarily agree with them and at times I was screaming internally at them ‘DON’T DO/SAY THAT!!’. At times it’s an uncomfortable and frustrating read as you can see them falling apart but (obviously 🙄) can’t do anything about it. All this to say that it really drew me in (can you tell? 😂) and had me invested in the outcome, and therein lies the problem for me….
At the end of the book nothing is resolved, you get no answers, you’re left dangling 😔. This book is good, REALLY good, so good that I know I’m probably going to be searching out the next book in the series as I want to know what happens next. I say probably because if I read the next book and STILL nothing is resolved I’m going to be really annoyed. Hence the 3 🌟 review. I desperately wanted to give it four stars but the ending spoilt it for me, it felt like diving into a jam donut, savouring the smell, delighting in the delicious dough, only to find they forgot to put the jam in it. I feel cheated!
If you like thought provoking, emotional rollercoaster reads then this one’s for you! Enjoy! ☺️
March 27, 2025
If you're looking for "the feels", then this is the book for you. Your heart gets broken and remade. It gets tended to and pushed to the limits and at times, you're going to find yourself crying because you can't figure out if you're happy or sad.
The emotional ride that you're taken on with this story makes your heart beat faster as you realize that there are certain traumas that almost no relationship can make it through. Because for some who have been hurt, there's no way to show your support for them that will end up looking not only genuine, but also just "good" in their eyes. The memory of a relationship isn't always what it's cracked up to be when trauma puts someone into a whole other train of thought. And when that someone can't even look at you without pain in their eyes? It instead makes you think of pity. You think they PITY you, when really they just wish they could help. And it's that wishful thinking that puts you into a train of thought that begins to push them away, instead of allowing them closer.
Now. Couple that with the fact that as you have realized that trying to help them personally simply isn't working, you're also trying to get back to your own life and make sure that you don't disappear in the process of them disappearing from you? It seems to me that the relationship is almost doomed. Add on top of THAT, that there is a very, very large temptation at work that seems to pair off beautifully with the face that there is someone who seems to be getting closer to your special someone?
This is a mix of "ready to go boom" at its finest and I was totally here for it. READ it. You're going to need the ride as much as I did.
The emotional ride that you're taken on with this story makes your heart beat faster as you realize that there are certain traumas that almost no relationship can make it through. Because for some who have been hurt, there's no way to show your support for them that will end up looking not only genuine, but also just "good" in their eyes. The memory of a relationship isn't always what it's cracked up to be when trauma puts someone into a whole other train of thought. And when that someone can't even look at you without pain in their eyes? It instead makes you think of pity. You think they PITY you, when really they just wish they could help. And it's that wishful thinking that puts you into a train of thought that begins to push them away, instead of allowing them closer.
Now. Couple that with the fact that as you have realized that trying to help them personally simply isn't working, you're also trying to get back to your own life and make sure that you don't disappear in the process of them disappearing from you? It seems to me that the relationship is almost doomed. Add on top of THAT, that there is a very, very large temptation at work that seems to pair off beautifully with the face that there is someone who seems to be getting closer to your special someone?
This is a mix of "ready to go boom" at its finest and I was totally here for it. READ it. You're going to need the ride as much as I did.
March 2, 2025
This is a solemn read. It's full of angst. It's a heavy read. It ends with a 'To Be Continued" so it's not the complete story. It's not really a biting your nails kind of cliffhanger, but it does leave open ended. There are the three main characters. Gemma, who is not living her life anymore. She is a shell of a person after an accident she and her boyfriend suffered from. Harvey, once a bright and lively person who enjoyed action alongside Gemma, lost a piece of himself in that accident. He's been pushing her away ever since, though she refuses to give up on them. Then there is Damon. Her new boss, and a person who can help her live her life again, but he refuses to give her everything. This 'love' triangle has Gemma second guessing almost every decision she makes. The story is very heartfelt, though it isn't a pretty story. There's a lot of emotional pain. It's a slow burn type of story, and I don't mean any romance that may be involved, but the actual story itself. It's well written. And while it's a slow story, it keeps you enthralled and wanting to find out what comes next. While this is not really a dark read, it's not light-hearted or full of cheer. There are hints at secrets, that will most likely be revealed further down the road in the series. There is some sexual content, and some strong language that would deem this suitable for mature readers.
*I received an ARC of this book.
*I received an ARC of this book.
February 14, 2025
Scream and Be Free
Gemma took me along side her through all the emotions.
My feelings for Harvey ranged from butterflies to resentment of his choices. Early relationship Harv had me on the hook too.
Damon, he’s making me weak. I have some theories going into Grieving Graves of what his skeletons and baggage might be. Right now I’m really team Damon.
M.H.B was spot on throughout. There are so many solid statements about life, relationships and grief. I have to share some that really stood out:
“Damon takes hormones and lust to a whole new stratosphere, and I don’t know if I even want to make it out untouched.”
“You will almost never regret making it to the other side of fear because crossing fear means power.”
“We don’t need to lose someone to death to grieve. Sometimes, a new reality or a new way of life can make us grieve whatever or whomever we leave behind.”
“We plan and we see a future, and when it doesn’t happen, when things take a dim turn for the worst, our minds and bodies are in grieving mode, whether we notice or not.”
“He’s alive, but here I am, grieving stairs and shattered dreams.”
“Happiness and dreams—all gone within a night.”
I received a copy of this book from M.H.B. I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
Gemma took me along side her through all the emotions.
My feelings for Harvey ranged from butterflies to resentment of his choices. Early relationship Harv had me on the hook too.
Damon, he’s making me weak. I have some theories going into Grieving Graves of what his skeletons and baggage might be. Right now I’m really team Damon.
M.H.B was spot on throughout. There are so many solid statements about life, relationships and grief. I have to share some that really stood out:
“Damon takes hormones and lust to a whole new stratosphere, and I don’t know if I even want to make it out untouched.”
“You will almost never regret making it to the other side of fear because crossing fear means power.”
“We don’t need to lose someone to death to grieve. Sometimes, a new reality or a new way of life can make us grieve whatever or whomever we leave behind.”
“We plan and we see a future, and when it doesn’t happen, when things take a dim turn for the worst, our minds and bodies are in grieving mode, whether we notice or not.”
“He’s alive, but here I am, grieving stairs and shattered dreams.”
“Happiness and dreams—all gone within a night.”
I received a copy of this book from M.H.B. I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2021
Amount of sex 3 / 5
How explicit are the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Kisser of Death is the first book in the Kisses of Sorrow series written by author M. H. B. This was the first book I’ve read from the author, and it definitely won't be my last! The storyline was so captivating that I was absolutely hooked from the very first page. Even though this is true, it was the characters that really captured me.
Kisser of Death tells the story of Gemma Ackerman, a twenty-four-year-old woman who lives with her boyfriend, Harvey. Their relationship has been on the rocks for roughly 2.5 years, and Gemma is truly unhappy. She begins working at Dreygon Environmental Consulting Firm and truly loves her new job. However, it’s her new boss Damon, the company owner, that has Gemma smiling again.
This story was so gripping that I was on the edge of my seat, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster ride, and I seriously almost died during the last couple of chapters! So, prepare yourself for quite the cliffhanger!
Now the second book can’t come soon enough!
How explicit are the sex scenes 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5
Kisser of Death is the first book in the Kisses of Sorrow series written by author M. H. B. This was the first book I’ve read from the author, and it definitely won't be my last! The storyline was so captivating that I was absolutely hooked from the very first page. Even though this is true, it was the characters that really captured me.
Kisser of Death tells the story of Gemma Ackerman, a twenty-four-year-old woman who lives with her boyfriend, Harvey. Their relationship has been on the rocks for roughly 2.5 years, and Gemma is truly unhappy. She begins working at Dreygon Environmental Consulting Firm and truly loves her new job. However, it’s her new boss Damon, the company owner, that has Gemma smiling again.
This story was so gripping that I was on the edge of my seat, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough! I felt like I was on an emotional roller coaster ride, and I seriously almost died during the last couple of chapters! So, prepare yourself for quite the cliffhanger!
Now the second book can’t come soon enough!
September 16, 2024
The book was great. I usually don’t engage in the love triangle trope but I gave this one a chance and I realized that this is kind of realistic in some ways. Holding onto two men but for different needs we all need. Love and Touch. This story has everything. Love, family, chaos. Everything was described so beautifully that I felt her, like I was in the story watching from afar. I cannot wait till the second book comes out because the ending definetly left me on a mystery and would love to see how the conversation with Gemma and Harvey ends.
My heart ached for Gemma and Damon. Gemma because she blames herself for what happened to Harvey, and not knowing what to do between these two men. Damon because he seems so hurt.
I would definitely LOVE to see how Damon opens up to Gemma, telling her everything and seeing how things unravel.
I loved Gemma’s and Gia’s sibling-ship, them having each other’s backs, always there to help each other out and grow, knowing boundaries and literally just being there for each other.
Though I must warn you that if you don’t like the cheating trope then I wouldn’t recommend this to you.
My heart ached for Gemma and Damon. Gemma because she blames herself for what happened to Harvey, and not knowing what to do between these two men. Damon because he seems so hurt.
I would definitely LOVE to see how Damon opens up to Gemma, telling her everything and seeing how things unravel.
I loved Gemma’s and Gia’s sibling-ship, them having each other’s backs, always there to help each other out and grow, knowing boundaries and literally just being there for each other.
Though I must warn you that if you don’t like the cheating trope then I wouldn’t recommend this to you.
June 6, 2025
First off, this isn't a horror story, the title, but an angsty romance. After reading the story the title makes more sense. Gemma lives with her boyfriend, Harvey. Harvey was paralyzed in an accident. Quite frankly, Gemma and Harvey's relationship hasn't been the same since. At this point they're more roommates.
Everything changes when Gemma gets a new job. Gemma's new boss, Damon, is a silent broody man. There's just something pulling Gemma and Damon together. Gemma is unhappy at home but guilty. Damon will never give Gemma what she wants. I don’t know yet the source of Damon's issues yet.
This quote pretty much sums up Gemma's indecision. "While one man refuses to touch me, the other won’t love me." No, things don't resolve in this book. There are still 2 more books. I believe Gemma knows what she wants. Gemma's just scared to love and live to the fullest. I do see how Gemma could be a hypocritical and confusing character. I did immediately start reading the 2nd book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Everything changes when Gemma gets a new job. Gemma's new boss, Damon, is a silent broody man. There's just something pulling Gemma and Damon together. Gemma is unhappy at home but guilty. Damon will never give Gemma what she wants. I don’t know yet the source of Damon's issues yet.
This quote pretty much sums up Gemma's indecision. "While one man refuses to touch me, the other won’t love me." No, things don't resolve in this book. There are still 2 more books. I believe Gemma knows what she wants. Gemma's just scared to love and live to the fullest. I do see how Gemma could be a hypocritical and confusing character. I did immediately start reading the 2nd book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2021
This book has left me speechless. It’s filled with so much emotions , mystery, family, and unrequited love. Gemma, Harvey and Damon all seems to be caught in a parallel life between the past and current. I have to say that they are all broken and seem to be searching for something to keep them from drowning. I love the glimpse we get of Gemma and Harvey before the accident as opposed to their lives now. On the other hand I also, love that she learning a lot about Damon, but he is still such a mystery to her. Most of all Harvey and Damon both connects with Gemma on a level that’s truly tearing her apart. Most of all the bond that Gemma and Harrvey has seems to be filled with cracks with no communication whatsoever. Above all I’m left with so many questions and very curious about Harvey’s side and Claire. I truly looking forward to figuring out this mystery.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.
November 8, 2021
This is a very emotional book that is full of angst and I’m here for it.
Gemma, our h, is in a tough situation in her life where an old romance is dying and a new one sparks. But she can’t just walk away from her current situation because there is a lot at stake and too much history and pain between them.
After a tragic accident Gemma and her current boyfriend, Harvey, have to live with the aftermath. They both change and are not the people they were before the accident. Pieces of them died, but it’s not that easy to walk away.
Then there’s Damon. Her new boss that reminds her how it is to feel like a woman again. They are both playing with fire and both of them know it, but there is no way to stop them. Now, Gemma is stuck between two men and in a lot of emotional pain.
The story is so addictive and enthralling from beginning to end. I can’t wait for the next book to see how all of this drama will unfold.
Gemma, our h, is in a tough situation in her life where an old romance is dying and a new one sparks. But she can’t just walk away from her current situation because there is a lot at stake and too much history and pain between them.
After a tragic accident Gemma and her current boyfriend, Harvey, have to live with the aftermath. They both change and are not the people they were before the accident. Pieces of them died, but it’s not that easy to walk away.
Then there’s Damon. Her new boss that reminds her how it is to feel like a woman again. They are both playing with fire and both of them know it, but there is no way to stop them. Now, Gemma is stuck between two men and in a lot of emotional pain.
The story is so addictive and enthralling from beginning to end. I can’t wait for the next book to see how all of this drama will unfold.
December 1, 2023
I REALLY wanted to like this. I tried to push through and finish it. But at around halfway through, I have to stop. I just can't take all the repeating of stuff. I can't take the cheating. I can't take all the references to "my sex" or "my pussy." "My sex" is such a cringe way to refer to a woman's vagina. I'd have tolerated it if it were only one or two times. But it's said A LOT. UGH.
This book has a REALLY good premise - what do you do when your significant other is no longer acting as your partner and refuses to give you love or affection? But falling for a man who repeatedly says he's bad and will never love you? Then cheating with that man and being heartbroken when *gasp* he won't love you? Awful.
Maybe in the end she gets what she deserves for not having the guts to leave the boyfriend first. Maybe her boyfriend turns his attitude around. I'll never know because I just can't take anymore. I'm so sorry. :( Two stars, though, for a good premise.
This book has a REALLY good premise - what do you do when your significant other is no longer acting as your partner and refuses to give you love or affection? But falling for a man who repeatedly says he's bad and will never love you? Then cheating with that man and being heartbroken when *gasp* he won't love you? Awful.
Maybe in the end she gets what she deserves for not having the guts to leave the boyfriend first. Maybe her boyfriend turns his attitude around. I'll never know because I just can't take anymore. I'm so sorry. :( Two stars, though, for a good premise.
September 26, 2024
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC of the book for an honest review.
After an accident, Gemma's boyfriend Harvey pulls further and further away. For years, she is shut out by him even though he is warm towards others. She has been so dedicated to him, but decides to try and find a piece of herself again by accepting a new job. Something more is cracked open in her when she meets her new boss, Damon.
I'm a fan of a good love triangle and this one is really interesting because it's more of a battle between the past and the present. My favorite thing about the story was the raw emotion conveyed. I could absolutely understand and feel Emma's pain throughout this book. M.H.B. does a great job describing the heartache of loving someone while being so deprived of love and affection in return. It was definitely a roller coaster of emotions on all sides. I did get a little frustrated about Gemma's unwillingness to confront or communicate in the beginning, but once she does open up, she speaks👏 her👏 mind👏. She's also a fan of Harry Potter and motorcycles, which I love!
Damon's character is dark and surrounded in mystery. I wanted a little more buildup between him and Gemma to understand the attraction better, but their tension when things get moving does not disappoint! The heat between these two is fantastic. I absolutely want to know his story, as well as more of Harvey's perspective.
We are left with a cliffhanger, so I'm pumped to get to the second book, Grieving Graves!
After an accident, Gemma's boyfriend Harvey pulls further and further away. For years, she is shut out by him even though he is warm towards others. She has been so dedicated to him, but decides to try and find a piece of herself again by accepting a new job. Something more is cracked open in her when she meets her new boss, Damon.
I'm a fan of a good love triangle and this one is really interesting because it's more of a battle between the past and the present. My favorite thing about the story was the raw emotion conveyed. I could absolutely understand and feel Emma's pain throughout this book. M.H.B. does a great job describing the heartache of loving someone while being so deprived of love and affection in return. It was definitely a roller coaster of emotions on all sides. I did get a little frustrated about Gemma's unwillingness to confront or communicate in the beginning, but once she does open up, she speaks👏 her👏 mind👏. She's also a fan of Harry Potter and motorcycles, which I love!
Damon's character is dark and surrounded in mystery. I wanted a little more buildup between him and Gemma to understand the attraction better, but their tension when things get moving does not disappoint! The heat between these two is fantastic. I absolutely want to know his story, as well as more of Harvey's perspective.
We are left with a cliffhanger, so I'm pumped to get to the second book, Grieving Graves!
October 10, 2024
I couldn’t put it down
This book had my emotions in a chokehold from the get go… I felt soo many emotions reading this book… I loved the storyline how relatable it could be… The pain that Gemma is going through… How much she is trying in the relationship… Gemma has lost herself in the past couple of years after the accident… She is just going through life, waiting for any crumbs that Harvey gives her… Then Damon she starts working for Damon and has all these feelings… I actually enjoyed the tension between them two… I enjoyed when she started doing things for herself… Gaining her confidence back… But I am still heartbroken for her cause she seems soo confused by what to do…
The book does end in a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to read book two… I would definitely recommend this book as I couldn’t put it down. I loved how relatable it is with someone trying soo hard in a relationship because of loyalty, love and memories from before x
This book had my emotions in a chokehold from the get go… I felt soo many emotions reading this book… I loved the storyline how relatable it could be… The pain that Gemma is going through… How much she is trying in the relationship… Gemma has lost herself in the past couple of years after the accident… She is just going through life, waiting for any crumbs that Harvey gives her… Then Damon she starts working for Damon and has all these feelings… I actually enjoyed the tension between them two… I enjoyed when she started doing things for herself… Gaining her confidence back… But I am still heartbroken for her cause she seems soo confused by what to do…
The book does end in a cliff hanger and I can’t wait to read book two… I would definitely recommend this book as I couldn’t put it down. I loved how relatable it is with someone trying soo hard in a relationship because of loyalty, love and memories from before x
February 24, 2025
Never underestimate a book with so little reviews!!!
I could not put this book down, i worked and read this book at the same time. It took over my day.
Ive not felt this much emotional heart ache from a book for quite some time.
I resonated with the Fmc so much, her emotion bled all over the pages.
I rated this book a 5* because i connected with the characters, emotions and plot.
Gemma…. Our fmc, meets a guy whilst in collage and falls head over heels. A year later they are both involved in a motorcycle accident where they both end up in hospital. Her boyfriend becomes a paraplegic, with intense physiotherapy he may walk again aided. Over a two year period her pushes gemma away fracturing her heart bit by bit. She becomes a shadow of herself, holding all emotions inside.
Gemma finds a job and that is where our second love interest walks in to the picture.
I could not put this book down, i worked and read this book at the same time. It took over my day.
Ive not felt this much emotional heart ache from a book for quite some time.
I resonated with the Fmc so much, her emotion bled all over the pages.
I rated this book a 5* because i connected with the characters, emotions and plot.
Gemma…. Our fmc, meets a guy whilst in collage and falls head over heels. A year later they are both involved in a motorcycle accident where they both end up in hospital. Her boyfriend becomes a paraplegic, with intense physiotherapy he may walk again aided. Over a two year period her pushes gemma away fracturing her heart bit by bit. She becomes a shadow of herself, holding all emotions inside.
Gemma finds a job and that is where our second love interest walks in to the picture.
October 17, 2021
KoD by M.H.B. is the first book in the Kisses of Sorrow Series. Be aware, this is not a stand-alone.
KoD starts out witha bang and turns into a sloww burn witha storyline I was intrigued by.
Gemma is a woman who's starving for a kind word. Her boyfriend is wheelchair bound and not a ray of sunshine anymore. Everything changed between the two and my why not just quit - that's what I was sking me the whole time.
Put another man in the mix and now she has a real mess on her hands.
The story started out strong and I really loved what happened, but after the first half, I just don't know what happened with the heroine, it was like she was frozen, couldn't make any decision, stand up for herself. So I'm hoping is she's getting a grip in the next instalment.
KoD starts out witha bang and turns into a sloww burn witha storyline I was intrigued by.
Gemma is a woman who's starving for a kind word. Her boyfriend is wheelchair bound and not a ray of sunshine anymore. Everything changed between the two and my why not just quit - that's what I was sking me the whole time.
Put another man in the mix and now she has a real mess on her hands.
The story started out strong and I really loved what happened, but after the first half, I just don't know what happened with the heroine, it was like she was frozen, couldn't make any decision, stand up for herself. So I'm hoping is she's getting a grip in the next instalment.
September 16, 2024
I am dazed! In awe!
I have never been so impacted and affected by a book before! From the very start I was hooked and entranced. I felt Gemma’s despair and internal struggle. I usually would never read a book that involved thoughts of or actual cheating, but damn, I loved this book!
I can understand where Gemma was coming from and why she did what she did. I do not want to, but I am rooting for Harvey (even though I want to slap the sh*t out of him!) I can not discount Damon though! That hottie with his secrets! (Ugh)
Oh, but the cliffhanger! The cliffhanger! I literally can not wait for the continuation in Grieving Graves! Who will Gemma end up with? Will it be (please!) an HEA? Harvey, is he distancing himself because of his love for Gemma, doing what book bf’s stupidly do & making the decision for her (Oh, boo hoo I am not good enough for her! ) Insert eye roll here, so gag! Damon, is he the angel by her bedside? The possible hit and run driver?
This book will stay in my mind for a long time!
I have never been so impacted and affected by a book before! From the very start I was hooked and entranced. I felt Gemma’s despair and internal struggle. I usually would never read a book that involved thoughts of or actual cheating, but damn, I loved this book!
I can understand where Gemma was coming from and why she did what she did. I do not want to, but I am rooting for Harvey (even though I want to slap the sh*t out of him!) I can not discount Damon though! That hottie with his secrets! (Ugh)
Oh, but the cliffhanger! The cliffhanger! I literally can not wait for the continuation in Grieving Graves! Who will Gemma end up with? Will it be (please!) an HEA? Harvey, is he distancing himself because of his love for Gemma, doing what book bf’s stupidly do & making the decision for her (Oh, boo hoo I am not good enough for her! ) Insert eye roll here, so gag! Damon, is he the angel by her bedside? The possible hit and run driver?
This book will stay in my mind for a long time!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2021
Full review to come.
I’m looking forward the rest of Damon and Gemma’s story.
This is a new to me author. Based on the blurb I was expecting it to be a steamier read, so that was a bit disappointing.
Gemma harbors guilt for what happened to Henry even though she should.
Henry… I’m not a fan. I know it’s written to be that way but he does nothing for me.
Damon…Where to start, he’s mysteriously guard with personal information. I know that we do not have the whole story but I figured out part of his secret early on 🙄.
The chemistry between Gemma and Damon is a slowburn that keeps you turning the pages.
Hopefully the wait isn’t to long for book 2.
I’m looking forward the rest of Damon and Gemma’s story.
This is a new to me author. Based on the blurb I was expecting it to be a steamier read, so that was a bit disappointing.
Gemma harbors guilt for what happened to Henry even though she should.
Henry… I’m not a fan. I know it’s written to be that way but he does nothing for me.
Damon…Where to start, he’s mysteriously guard with personal information. I know that we do not have the whole story but I figured out part of his secret early on 🙄.
The chemistry between Gemma and Damon is a slowburn that keeps you turning the pages.
Hopefully the wait isn’t to long for book 2.
October 22, 2021
Wow! Talk about an emotional roller coaster ride! This book reeks you in from the very beginning and tugs you in every direction possible. You will feel the emotions the characters feel because you will be so immersed into the story that you will feel the sorrow, the hurt, the sadness, heartache and anger plus more. There are many twists snd secrets in this book between the main characters who are Gemma who is with Harvey who has changed into a different person after the accident and Damon who becomes Gemmas boss and love interest as well. It’s a rocky ride but one I can’t wait to continue in with and have my emotions thrown everywhere again. This is a must read in my opinion!
October 22, 2021
After reading the blurb for this book I knew I had to read it. This is a new to author. I love a good love triangle. Kisser of Death was a lot deeper than I thought it would be. There’s plenty of angst which makes me so happy.
Gemma, Henry and Damon are the main characters. She feels guilty for what happened to Henry. They use to have fun together. Now she is a shell of who she was and is trying desperately to get Henry to notice her. Henry is constantly pushing Gemma away and keeping her at arms length. I still
Haven’t figured out Damon.
I can’t wait to see how things turn out. Get ready for a bumpy ride.
Gemma, Henry and Damon are the main characters. She feels guilty for what happened to Henry. They use to have fun together. Now she is a shell of who she was and is trying desperately to get Henry to notice her. Henry is constantly pushing Gemma away and keeping her at arms length. I still
Haven’t figured out Damon.
I can’t wait to see how things turn out. Get ready for a bumpy ride.
April 13, 2022
This is such a good story! It is full of angst, and you feel for each one of the characters and what they are going through. Harvy and Gemma had been dating for a year when a terrible accident happened. Harvy hasn’t been able to move on. And Gemma has stuck by his side. But in doing so she has lost herself. She gets hired as a personal assistant to Damon. They have an attraction to each other. But Gemma knows nothing can happen because she is with Harvy. But Damon gives her the affection that she been missing for so long. This is a great read. I can’t wait for the next book to see what’s going to happen.
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