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Shadows of London #5
Without a Trace
The windswept Scottish Highlands.
Everything has changed.
With new names and new lives, Dom & Kempthorne should be living their happy ending, but it’s not over yet.
Kage Mitchell knows they’re alive and he’s discovered the single most devastating secret Kempthorne has yet to tell Dom.
There is no other option. Kage Mitchell must die.
But he’s the least of Kempthorne’s concerns. With their identities revealed, and a war brewing between latents and normals, the shadows are on the rise once again, and an old threat awakens beneath London. A threat that could change latents, and the world, forever.
Kempthorne has spent his whole life running from his past. But now, the past is back, and alone, he’s not strong enough to win this fight. When the terrible truth is revealed, will Dom forgive him enough to fight with him?
The Shadows of London series comes to its climatic finale in Without a Trace.
Everything has changed.
With new names and new lives, Dom & Kempthorne should be living their happy ending, but it’s not over yet.
Kage Mitchell knows they’re alive and he’s discovered the single most devastating secret Kempthorne has yet to tell Dom.
There is no other option. Kage Mitchell must die.
But he’s the least of Kempthorne’s concerns. With their identities revealed, and a war brewing between latents and normals, the shadows are on the rise once again, and an old threat awakens beneath London. A threat that could change latents, and the world, forever.
Kempthorne has spent his whole life running from his past. But now, the past is back, and alone, he’s not strong enough to win this fight. When the terrible truth is revealed, will Dom forgive him enough to fight with him?
The Shadows of London series comes to its climatic finale in Without a Trace.
374 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 26, 2022
About the author
Ariana Nash
43 books1,901 followersBorn to wolves, Ariana Nash only ventures from the Cornish moors when the moon is fat and the night alive with myths and legends. She captures those myths in glass jars and returning home, weaves them into stories filled with forbidden desires, fantasy realms, and wicked delights.
Her debut novel Silk & Steel hit Amazon's:
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Horror
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Fantasy
#1 LGBT Fantasy Hot New Releases
#1 LGBT Horror Hot New Releases - for 3 months!
Join her Goodreads group here: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Sign up to her newsletter here: https://www.subscribepage.com/silk-steel
Her debut novel Silk & Steel hit Amazon's:
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Horror
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Fantasy
#1 LGBT Fantasy Hot New Releases
#1 LGBT Horror Hot New Releases - for 3 months!
Join her Goodreads group here: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Sign up to her newsletter here: https://www.subscribepage.com/silk-steel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
May 31, 2023
I was provided an e-copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
✅ Characters
✅ 2 POVs
✅ Twists
✅ Action and pace
✅ Some expansion of the world-building
✅ Powers / Magic
✅ Romance and smut
✅ Plot
4.5 stars
Did I binge-reread this whole series in 6 days? Yes I did, and it was goooooood!!
After faking their deaths and escaping to Scotland, Kempthorne and Dom are trying their best to have a “normal” life, but with Kempthorne still keeping a huge secret from Dom, and Kage being after them and getting closer every day, it’s only a matter of time before their peaceful bubble bursts. Forced to go back to London, Dom and Kempthorne realize that things are much direr than they thought, and they might be the only ones able to save London in time.
As is hinted in the blurb, Kempthorne (I never know if I should call him Kempthorne of Alex) is still keeping secrets (but are we really surprised?). He is the all-time champion of misdirection and vague answers, but Dom is used to that by now. The real problem is that Kempthorne's last big secret is one that will irredeemably change Dom’s life, and Kempthorne is terrified of losing Dom if he ever finds out about this last big secret. Dom and Kempthorne’s relationship is seriously tested in this last book, and there is the usual Nash’s healthy dose of angst and heart-wrenching moments in it.
As in the previous books, this one has a fast pace and engaging plot, and poor Dom and Kempthorne just can’t catch their breath. They are thrown into so many life-threatening situations, and while I was 99% sure that things would ultimately end well for them, I was stressed a few times, and I was anxious that the author would dare to deny them their happy ending. I mean, between the fighting, car chase, explosions, plane explosion, little holiday in a psych ward, abduction, threats, hospital trips, and everything else that happened to them since book 1, they deserve to be happy and live a very quiet and boring life.
Kage is also a part of this book, as he's made it his mission to destroy Dom and Kempthorne to get revenge after the death of his brother in the previous book. The more we see of him, the clearer it becomes that he is slowly losing it because of all his rage and grief. I think back to when I first read the first book, and while I've always been Team Kempthorne, I remember still really liking Kage and kinda feeling bad for hoping that Dom would end up with someone else, but in this book, I just wanted him to suffer and die a slow painful death. It's crazy how the author took a good, sweet character that I loved and slowly made me dislike him, then hate him to the point where I wished for his death!
I said it before, and I’ll say it again: those two can seem dysfunctional at times, but they fit so well together, and they are so cute! I love how Dom is not worried about impressing Kempthorne anymore, and just owns the fact that he’s from a completely different background, and how Kempthorne loves Dom’s simplicity and honesty. Their different lifestyle does create some cute and funny moments though, and I would honestly read a book just about the two of them enjoying a quiet and happy life together. I can’t get enough of them. We also have both POVs once again in this book, so it allowed us to see how they both love each other so much and how they would do anything to keep each other safe. Once again, they made me go through so many emotions in this book, but I LOVED IT!
Cas and Gina are back in this book and I am SO HAPPY! I really missed Gina in the last book, and I really wanted to see her one last time before I said goodbye to Kempthorne & Co.’s crew. They added a funny and sweet touch to the story, and at the same time, we got to see their kickass side. I really like Gina and Dom's friendship, and it was a relief to know that they would not spend the rest of their life apart from each other.
Also, a special mention to Dom's mom who is just hilarious and a badass mom. You don't want to get on her bad side or try to tell her what to do! 😅
Ariana Nash always delivers. Once again, she wrote an amazing series with an intricate and engaging plot, sweet, complex, and so-lovable characters, sexual tension, angst, smut, and a whole lot of funny and also heart-wrenching moments. She is an auto-buy author for me. 🖤
Twisted Pretty Things ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Tide of Tricks ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trial by Fire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Truth or Dare ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
✅ Characters
✅ 2 POVs
✅ Twists
✅ Action and pace
✅ Some expansion of the world-building
✅ Powers / Magic
✅ Romance and smut
✅ Plot
4.5 stars
Did I binge-reread this whole series in 6 days? Yes I did, and it was goooooood!!
He’d witnessed too much, and the rest I’d shared. Hm, no. That was a lie. And touched on the one thing he needed to know. The one thing I’d tried and failed to tell him a hundred times in the cottage. The last secret between us, like an unseen thorn in my side.
After faking their deaths and escaping to Scotland, Kempthorne and Dom are trying their best to have a “normal” life, but with Kempthorne still keeping a huge secret from Dom, and Kage being after them and getting closer every day, it’s only a matter of time before their peaceful bubble bursts. Forced to go back to London, Dom and Kempthorne realize that things are much direr than they thought, and they might be the only ones able to save London in time.
We needed to talk, a real talk, not one of those conversations where he answered every question and it wasn’t until later I realized he hadn’t answered a bloody thing.
As is hinted in the blurb, Kempthorne (I never know if I should call him Kempthorne of Alex) is still keeping secrets (but are we really surprised?). He is the all-time champion of misdirection and vague answers, but Dom is used to that by now. The real problem is that Kempthorne's last big secret is one that will irredeemably change Dom’s life, and Kempthorne is terrified of losing Dom if he ever finds out about this last big secret. Dom and Kempthorne’s relationship is seriously tested in this last book, and there is the usual Nash’s healthy dose of angst and heart-wrenching moments in it.
“Dom, dude, you look like you’ve escaped from the psych ward. Again.”
As in the previous books, this one has a fast pace and engaging plot, and poor Dom and Kempthorne just can’t catch their breath. They are thrown into so many life-threatening situations, and while I was 99% sure that things would ultimately end well for them, I was stressed a few times, and I was anxious that the author would dare to deny them their happy ending. I mean, between the fighting, car chase, explosions, plane explosion, little holiday in a psych ward, abduction, threats, hospital trips, and everything else that happened to them since book 1, they deserve to be happy and live a very quiet and boring life.
Kage is also a part of this book, as he's made it his mission to destroy Dom and Kempthorne to get revenge after the death of his brother in the previous book. The more we see of him, the clearer it becomes that he is slowly losing it because of all his rage and grief. I think back to when I first read the first book, and while I've always been Team Kempthorne, I remember still really liking Kage and kinda feeling bad for hoping that Dom would end up with someone else, but in this book, I just wanted him to suffer and die a slow painful death. It's crazy how the author took a good, sweet character that I loved and slowly made me dislike him, then hate him to the point where I wished for his death!
“We’ve been through some shit,” John mused. He walked alongside me, thumbs tucked into his new jeans pockets. His I Heart Nessie grey and green T-shirt with a cartoon Nessie looked a little ridiculous, and was a size too small, but it made me smile every time I glanced over. He’d tried to convince me to buy shorts and flip-flops, but one of us had to draw the line somewhere.
I said it before, and I’ll say it again: those two can seem dysfunctional at times, but they fit so well together, and they are so cute! I love how Dom is not worried about impressing Kempthorne anymore, and just owns the fact that he’s from a completely different background, and how Kempthorne loves Dom’s simplicity and honesty. Their different lifestyle does create some cute and funny moments though, and I would honestly read a book just about the two of them enjoying a quiet and happy life together. I can’t get enough of them. We also have both POVs once again in this book, so it allowed us to see how they both love each other so much and how they would do anything to keep each other safe. Once again, they made me go through so many emotions in this book, but I LOVED IT!
“Easy now…” Cas whispered. “We all just gotta look not-sus.”
She had bright pink hair, and she was clearly stealing a patient. None of us looked not-sus. The three of us couldn’t have looked more sus if we’d been wearing orange overalls.
Cas wheeled me into an elevator, where we sat in awkward silence as the floors counted down. Blood dribbled from my wrist where I’d torn out the IV. Stupid move, that. Whatever drugs they’d been giving me, I was probably going to need more of them soon, when my body stopped floating and my head was back in the game. “I think I’m high.”
“Awesome,” Cas said. “I wish I was.”
Cas and Gina are back in this book and I am SO HAPPY! I really missed Gina in the last book, and I really wanted to see her one last time before I said goodbye to Kempthorne & Co.’s crew. They added a funny and sweet touch to the story, and at the same time, we got to see their kickass side. I really like Gina and Dom's friendship, and it was a relief to know that they would not spend the rest of their life apart from each other.
Also, a special mention to Dom's mom who is just hilarious and a badass mom. You don't want to get on her bad side or try to tell her what to do! 😅
“If it comes down to you or them, I’m saving you every time.”
“This is probably the wrong time, but your ruthless streak is hot as fuck.”
“I’m glad you approve.”
Ariana Nash always delivers. Once again, she wrote an amazing series with an intricate and engaging plot, sweet, complex, and so-lovable characters, sexual tension, angst, smut, and a whole lot of funny and also heart-wrenching moments. She is an auto-buy author for me. 🖤
“I love you.” The words shuddered into me with his every thrust. “You’re my whole world, the reason I breathe, the blood in my heart. You’re mine, and I’d burn the world for you.”
Twisted Pretty Things ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Tide of Tricks ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Trial by Fire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Truth or Dare ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
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August 26, 2022I'm gonna miss these guys SO MUCH! * sobs *
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August 29, 2022
"That was the hottest fuckin' thing anyone has ever done for me," I said.
"I'm always happy to threaten bloody murder for you, John."
"We just might pull this off."
Alex's smile twitched. "We just might."
i loved the conclusion of Dom and Kempthorne's story, but i think the second half was my favorite part. the plot, the romance, how everything was resolved - it just worked for me more. the first half had frustrating moments where i wasn't sure if i was going to like its direction at first (ex. ) so i'm glad the second half happened the way it did. i'm gonna miss my bbs Dom and Kempthorne sm!! 🥺
p.s. thank GOD .
"I'm always happy to threaten bloody murder for you, John."
"We just might pull this off."
Alex's smile twitched. "We just might."
i loved the conclusion of Dom and Kempthorne's story, but i think the second half was my favorite part. the plot, the romance, how everything was resolved - it just worked for me more. the first half had frustrating moments where i wasn't sure if i was going to like its direction at first (ex. ) so i'm glad the second half happened the way it did. i'm gonna miss my bbs Dom and Kempthorne sm!! 🥺
p.s. thank GOD .
January 29, 2024
Without a Trace is the explosive finale to a wild and entertaining series. I'm certainly going to miss Dom and Kempthorne, but now hopefully they'll get some much deserved peace and quiet. For a while at least.
I read this series via audio and the narrator Cornell Collins did an amazing job!
I read this series via audio and the narrator Cornell Collins did an amazing job!
August 28, 2022
OMFG!! This is how you finish a series!! 👏👏👏
This book was insane, it was like the best action movie ever, but ON STEROIDS, and with hot sex on the side. It’s fucking unreal how AN managed to basically keep the suspense/excitement/tension at an all-time-high throughout the WHOLE BOOK, with reveal after shocking reveal that made my head spin. 😳💫 From the first page, this was like a high-speed rollercoaster ride that didn’t slow down for a second until the very end.
I highly recommend this series if UF is your cup of tea, it’s SO DAMN GOOD.
Also, I now have a new life goal: get myself a bae like Alexander Kempthorne. 💘🤭
This book was insane, it was like the best action movie ever, but ON STEROIDS, and with hot sex on the side. It’s fucking unreal how AN managed to basically keep the suspense/excitement/tension at an all-time-high throughout the WHOLE BOOK, with reveal after shocking reveal that made my head spin. 😳💫 From the first page, this was like a high-speed rollercoaster ride that didn’t slow down for a second until the very end.
I highly recommend this series if UF is your cup of tea, it’s SO DAMN GOOD.
Also, I now have a new life goal: get myself a bae like Alexander Kempthorne. 💘🤭
February 14, 2024
i am fully aware that this is me being very sensitive but having a book with a gay relationship have a plot where people are different for a reason they can’t help and your answer to ppl not even just judging them but wanting those ppl dead isn’t to help those with the differences be accepted but to get rid of what makes them different reads as VERY tone deaf.
i think i’ll dnf this for now (33%) cus i don’t wanna deal with this rn of this is where this book is going (i am fully aware it might not even go there but i don’t wanna disappoint myself with a series i liked ending like that)
i think i’ll dnf this for now (33%) cus i don’t wanna deal with this rn of this is where this book is going (i am fully aware it might not even go there but i don’t wanna disappoint myself with a series i liked ending like that)
August 30, 2022
"Alex, the suave bastard, straightened his cuffs beside me. Christ, he was hot when he got his murder on."
Wow, Ariana Nash has done it again! Without a Trace is the fifth and final book in her Shadows of London MM urban fantasy series and she has just knocked it out of the park!
If you haven't read the previous four books, stop now and go and do that, or else be prepared for some major spoilers ahead....
As always, we pick up where we left off, with Kempthorne (still can't get used to calling him Alex!) and Dom lying low in the wilds of Scotland having faked their own deaths to try and throw a revenge-fuelled Kage Mitchell off their trail. But he is the least of their problems when it becomes clear exactly who and what is behind the shadows rising beneath London. Not to mention the one big secret that Kempthorne has kept from Dom...
Honestly, I couldn't have loved these boys and this series more. Two powerful alphas, wallowing in their own pools of self-doubt, latents and normals on the streets of London, double crosses and lies around every corner, treachery and murder strewn amongst the chapters and thank goodness, FINALLY the happy ever after that we have been hanging out for. Oh and did I mention the steam?! Because, yeah....that too 😈.
He pointed. "You stay there, with your dick out, Kempthorne, and tell me, because if we go back to your room or anywhere else, then you'll do what you do, distract me all over again, and I'll fall for it, because I can't stop falling for you."
If you haven't read this series yet, you need to. Like, right now. Seriously.
"You're my whole world, the reason I breathe, the blood in my heart. You're mine, and I'd burn the world for you."
Highly recommended!
ALL THE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Wow, Ariana Nash has done it again! Without a Trace is the fifth and final book in her Shadows of London MM urban fantasy series and she has just knocked it out of the park!
If you haven't read the previous four books, stop now and go and do that, or else be prepared for some major spoilers ahead....
As always, we pick up where we left off, with Kempthorne (still can't get used to calling him Alex!) and Dom lying low in the wilds of Scotland having faked their own deaths to try and throw a revenge-fuelled Kage Mitchell off their trail. But he is the least of their problems when it becomes clear exactly who and what is behind the shadows rising beneath London. Not to mention the one big secret that Kempthorne has kept from Dom...
Honestly, I couldn't have loved these boys and this series more. Two powerful alphas, wallowing in their own pools of self-doubt, latents and normals on the streets of London, double crosses and lies around every corner, treachery and murder strewn amongst the chapters and thank goodness, FINALLY the happy ever after that we have been hanging out for. Oh and did I mention the steam?! Because, yeah....that too 😈.
He pointed. "You stay there, with your dick out, Kempthorne, and tell me, because if we go back to your room or anywhere else, then you'll do what you do, distract me all over again, and I'll fall for it, because I can't stop falling for you."
If you haven't read this series yet, you need to. Like, right now. Seriously.
"You're my whole world, the reason I breathe, the blood in my heart. You're mine, and I'd burn the world for you."
Highly recommended!
ALL THE STARS ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 30, 2022
4.5 Stars
August 29, 2022
My wrecked heart thumped out of rhythm, my trick fizzled and vanished. I wasn't sure if I could breathe, but that was all right. I'd saved him. I'd saved him, and that was a good thing. A good ending... for me. I fought to keep my eyes open, fearing when they closed, oblivion waited for me on the other side, but weakness took hold, my eyes closed. If it was truly over, and I'd given my life for the man I loved, then I was ready.
A dramatic, action-packed, drama-filled, adrenaline-fueled, twisted and twisty rollercoaster ride that was the most absolutely perfect ending to the Shadows of London series. Between stomping on my heart, repeatedly threatening the very existence of several characters (and boy does this author like torturing us by KILLING them in her books), dragging me on an epic chase from Fort William via London to Cornwall, and many other places along the way.
"You're my whole world, the reason I breathe, the blood in my heart. You're mine, and I'd burn the world for you."
We get to meet someone very special to Dom in this book, and what a hoot that person was! Full of life, down to earth, and totally in Dom's corner. I kinda wished we'd met them earlier, but I get why we didn't. I was also hoping for a "Black Prince" type redemption
I don't quite know how Ariana Nash maintained such a gripping pace to the story, nor do I understand how I managed to survive it with my heart and soul intact. It sure is some powerful magic that she weaves, and whilst a
If you enjoy well-written Urban Fantasy/ Magical Realism, if you enjoy MM steamy romance, then this is very much a must-read series. It is so good I already
"Woo!" Cass yelled. "Did you see that?" She waved the book. "The power of love, bitches."
I frowned. "Did she steal the wedding registry book?"
"It appears so."
August 24, 2022
I swear, I tried to take my time with this but the pages just turned themselves.
This finale was everything I wanted and more! It's brutal, anxiety inducing and deeply romantic at the same time.
The way Kempthorne loves Dom is just... wow. He would literally burn the world down for him and doesn't believe in empty threats.
All my questions were answered, there were more than a few surprises and a very happy ending.
I cannot wait for his on audio. It's going to be epic
This finale was everything I wanted and more! It's brutal, anxiety inducing and deeply romantic at the same time.
The way Kempthorne loves Dom is just... wow. He would literally burn the world down for him and doesn't believe in empty threats.
All my questions were answered, there were more than a few surprises and a very happy ending.
I cannot wait for his on audio. It's going to be epic
September 5, 2022
“Are we a lie?” he asked.
If I said yes, I got the impression I might not be leaving the bathroom intact. Luckily, that would have been a lie. “We are real.”
Saying goodbye to the characters in a trilogy is hard enough. Imaging how I feel after five books following their adventures. I don’t think I’ve read a series, following the same couple, this long since I was a teen. I'm gonna miss this world so much.
If you aren't into dark books, so far compared to her other series I think this has the least amount of darkness. That doesn't mean you won't suffer though. There is still the signature “I don’t know if I should trust this character” that you feel in every Ariana Nash story.
Without a peaceful moment since the beginning, Alex and Dom still have a lot to deal with. They keep making mistakes but well that’s how they are. And that's why they are perfect for each other. I won’t write spoilers but just say that I'm sad that some decisions had to be made. But in the end the only things that matter to me were Dom and Alex’s happy moments in between all the madness. They both deserved them.
The last installment of this series was the perfect wrap up for this series. I'm gonna miss Alex and Dom so much.
*Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a free and honest review*
December 23, 2022
“That was the hottest fuckin’ thing anyone has ever done for me,” I said.
“I’m always happy to threaten bloody murder for you, John.”
i don't want to say goodbye to dom and kempthorne!! the way this series took me on a damn rollercoaster, i swear!!
full review to come whenever i decide to reread the series ;)
April 14, 2023
This is a must read series, I listened to this on audio and it was fantastic!!!!! 👏🏻👏🏻Never a DULL moment between sexy times 🔥 pure love ❤️ between Dom and Kempthorne, characters running for their life's and the whole mystery of the latents!!
May 10, 2023
This series!🥰 The plot twists and emotions it evoked are classic Ariana Nash! Read this! 💯% recommend!
September 10, 2022
OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD
i thought i was prepared but...... i wasnt OH MY GOD.
CHAOTIC CRAZY CRAZY CRAZY
i thought i was prepared but...... i wasnt OH MY GOD.
CHAOTIC CRAZY CRAZY CRAZY
August 24, 2022
***Received an eARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review***
The fifth and final book in the series. I was excited and equally had anxiety about how this will play out.
I loved the book, I loved every minute of this book. This was an incredible reading experience.
Amazing romance with hot romantic scenes. Powerful action sequences with lots of tricks and magic. Last but not least there is more than just one secret that has the potential to change the life of Alexander Kempthorne and John Domenici.
The book starts with Alexander and John living in Scotland, starting a new life with a new identity. Blissful 6 months have passed since the airport incident. But they know they cannot hide here for long. Alexander knows that he can't hide the truth from John for long. The last secret which can destroy everything he cared for, is that he can lose John forever.
The highlight of the book is Alexander and John's romance. Alexander is fiercely protective of John and John on the other hand has promised he will never leave Alexander even in the worst possible scenarios. Cas and Gina's involvement is impressive. They always have been there for Alex and John. They are family.
I wish I could give more than 5 stars because this book deserves it. The favorite in the series.
Highly recommended!!
The fifth and final book in the series. I was excited and equally had anxiety about how this will play out.
I loved the book, I loved every minute of this book. This was an incredible reading experience.
Amazing romance with hot romantic scenes. Powerful action sequences with lots of tricks and magic. Last but not least there is more than just one secret that has the potential to change the life of Alexander Kempthorne and John Domenici.
The book starts with Alexander and John living in Scotland, starting a new life with a new identity. Blissful 6 months have passed since the airport incident. But they know they cannot hide here for long. Alexander knows that he can't hide the truth from John for long. The last secret which can destroy everything he cared for, is that he can lose John forever.
The highlight of the book is Alexander and John's romance. Alexander is fiercely protective of John and John on the other hand has promised he will never leave Alexander even in the worst possible scenarios. Cas and Gina's involvement is impressive. They always have been there for Alex and John. They are family.
I wish I could give more than 5 stars because this book deserves it. The favorite in the series.
Highly recommended!!
September 11, 2022
This series is a typical Ariana Nash formula, but I can't deny that it works.
And the worldbuilding was amazing! 😍😍
So, in typical Nash fashion we have a main lead who is a really nice guy, but he thinks he is not, who got involved with a third dude as always and who is the key to or is going to save the world.
And the other dude is mysterious, always has a secret, never says anything to the other main dude cause he is scared of loosing him and is not a good dude.
So yeah, Ariana uses almost the exact formula to create her main characters, so maybe the relationship and the love wasn't really that impressive to me, considering that I had read other books of hers with the same stuff.
But! This book was amazing in the worldbuilsing for sure, the magic, the political shit and how all unfolded was really well done, specially for such a long series, you could see the connection with other books.
So I enjoyed it and I actually read it back to back, lovely. ❤️
And the worldbuilding was amazing! 😍😍
So, in typical Nash fashion we have a main lead who is a really nice guy, but he thinks he is not, who got involved with a third dude as always and who is the key to or is going to save the world.
And the other dude is mysterious, always has a secret, never says anything to the other main dude cause he is scared of loosing him and is not a good dude.
So yeah, Ariana uses almost the exact formula to create her main characters, so maybe the relationship and the love wasn't really that impressive to me, considering that I had read other books of hers with the same stuff.
But! This book was amazing in the worldbuilsing for sure, the magic, the political shit and how all unfolded was really well done, specially for such a long series, you could see the connection with other books.
So I enjoyed it and I actually read it back to back, lovely. ❤️
August 4, 2023
What an ending!!
This book was full of twists and a few times where I really didn't think the characters would come out whole from the battle. Alex and his lies threaten to ruin his life with John and I'm just so glad he is a very patient and forgiving man because I would've just stayed angry for a very long time.
We left Alex and John hiding after faking their deaths but I was so sure that not killing Kage was going to give them many headaches. Kage was beyond infuriating; I get it, many things happened to you, but come on! The world is in danger, let's just stop being annoying, okay? I'm a very peaceful person but Kage would've testes my patience so much to make explode.
The shadows in London, giving John nightmares or hallucinations, are calling all latents and John apparently is the Messiah of them all, being able to make latents and communicate with the source of their powers. There are a lot of revelations, like a lot, and I was honestly so scared about not having the kind of ending I would've been satisfied about. But I know that no matter the pain she makes us go through, in the end Ariana Nash finds a way to put everything back together for the kind of explosive ending worthy of such a incredible series.
This book was full of twists and a few times where I really didn't think the characters would come out whole from the battle. Alex and his lies threaten to ruin his life with John and I'm just so glad he is a very patient and forgiving man because I would've just stayed angry for a very long time.
We left Alex and John hiding after faking their deaths but I was so sure that not killing Kage was going to give them many headaches. Kage was beyond infuriating; I get it, many things happened to you, but come on! The world is in danger, let's just stop being annoying, okay? I'm a very peaceful person but Kage would've testes my patience so much to make explode.
The shadows in London, giving John nightmares or hallucinations, are calling all latents and John apparently is the Messiah of them all, being able to make latents and communicate with the source of their powers. There are a lot of revelations, like a lot, and I was honestly so scared about not having the kind of ending I would've been satisfied about. But I know that no matter the pain she makes us go through, in the end Ariana Nash finds a way to put everything back together for the kind of explosive ending worthy of such a incredible series.
September 24, 2022
The entire series is 3 stars for me
Every book ends on a cliffhanger but some of them felt so unnecessary it made me angry
I can’t even begin to tell you how much it took me out of whatever was supposed to be happening when the agency called the IRL came to be scary.
Alex and Doms relationship was one of the driving factors as to why I finished it but I also had to read it all at once because if I stopped I wouldn’t have started again
Robin, Gina, and Cas are a nice little group to help Alex and Dom out when needed.
I really hoped she would have finished the latent plot differently but I was not surprised just disappointed
Every book ends on a cliffhanger but some of them felt so unnecessary it made me angry
I can’t even begin to tell you how much it took me out of whatever was supposed to be happening when the agency called the IRL came to be scary.
Alex and Doms relationship was one of the driving factors as to why I finished it but I also had to read it all at once because if I stopped I wouldn’t have started again
Robin, Gina, and Cas are a nice little group to help Alex and Dom out when needed.
I really hoped she would have finished the latent plot differently but I was not surprised just disappointed
October 10, 2023
I'm glad to be-done this series ... some over-arching plotlines were getting a little 'wearing' and I'm pleased the author managed to 'put to rest' one increasingly alarming/annoying antagonist character before the ending and a thoroughly 'nasty piece of work' in the expected explosive finale. I don't think I've got the where-with-all to read anymore of the MCs and their magic-infused universe/world.
August 29, 2022
I can't believe that just this year, I've said farewell again to another series and its characters. Without a Trace was the fifth and final book in the Shadows of London series - the ending to the adventures of Alexander Kempthorne and John "Dom" Domenici.
This review contains spoilers so please proceed with caution.
I really liked this series a lot - flaws and all and this book was a perfect end this series.
Alex and Dom were trying to embrace their new life and identities in Scotland but their past was not willing to let them go. Kage Mitchell who knew of their secret has tracked them down and threatened their future together. With Kage on their tails, the couple were forced to return to London and there Alex would need to come to terms with the secrets he kept from Dom and the consequences of that. Dom who had been struggling with his new found powers must face his own feelings toward the events that happened in America as well as the discovery of the secrets regarding his true identity that Alex has kept from him.
As both, were grappling with their inner turmoil and the cracks to their relationship, an unexpected foe came out from the shadows of the past and threatened not only all that both held dear but the world as well.
So much happened in this installment. No punches were held and the characters were really put through the wringer. From the disastrous wedding proposal by Alex to the kidnapping of Dom and their wedding that was crashed by someone unexpected - things sure were a roller coaster of emotions and action-filled events, double crosses, treachery and murder. Even though I know that everything will turn out fine, I was still stressed (in a good way) every time something terrible happened to Dom or Alex.
For the most part the book was fast paced and the plot was really engaging. I really loved how far Dom and Alex had come from who they were in Twisted Pretty Things. Their evolution as characters individually and as a couple was a journey worth going through with these two. Their relationship had some dysfunctional moments but they fit and work so well together. They complement each other and whatever weaknesses the other had, somehow the other would fill in. I liked that their relationship wasn't always smooth sailing and they had to really fight hard to get their happily ever after. Their difference created some really fun and touching moments as well as made some witty exchanges between the two.
Kage Mitchell was also part of this book and boy was his character really a tragic one. The poor guy had to go through so much and in a sense the need for revenge was understandable. Still, after all he did, the resolution for his part in all of this was such a satisfying thing to read.
What I didn't like though was the surprise reveal on who was acting in the shadows - Alex's mother. I knew we needed a big bad for the finale but I wished there was more foreshadowing for her appearance. There were mentions about her in the previous books but personally I didn't find those were enough.
Overall, this was still a great ending for Dom and Alex's story and I do recommend giving this series a try.
This would be 5 stars out of 5 for me.
I received an ARC of this book via GRR and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
This review contains spoilers so please proceed with caution.
I really liked this series a lot - flaws and all and this book was a perfect end this series.
Alex and Dom were trying to embrace their new life and identities in Scotland but their past was not willing to let them go. Kage Mitchell who knew of their secret has tracked them down and threatened their future together. With Kage on their tails, the couple were forced to return to London and there Alex would need to come to terms with the secrets he kept from Dom and the consequences of that. Dom who had been struggling with his new found powers must face his own feelings toward the events that happened in America as well as the discovery of the secrets regarding his true identity that Alex has kept from him.
As both, were grappling with their inner turmoil and the cracks to their relationship, an unexpected foe came out from the shadows of the past and threatened not only all that both held dear but the world as well.
So much happened in this installment. No punches were held and the characters were really put through the wringer. From the disastrous wedding proposal by Alex to the kidnapping of Dom and their wedding that was crashed by someone unexpected - things sure were a roller coaster of emotions and action-filled events, double crosses, treachery and murder. Even though I know that everything will turn out fine, I was still stressed (in a good way) every time something terrible happened to Dom or Alex.
For the most part the book was fast paced and the plot was really engaging. I really loved how far Dom and Alex had come from who they were in Twisted Pretty Things. Their evolution as characters individually and as a couple was a journey worth going through with these two. Their relationship had some dysfunctional moments but they fit and work so well together. They complement each other and whatever weaknesses the other had, somehow the other would fill in. I liked that their relationship wasn't always smooth sailing and they had to really fight hard to get their happily ever after. Their difference created some really fun and touching moments as well as made some witty exchanges between the two.
Kage Mitchell was also part of this book and boy was his character really a tragic one. The poor guy had to go through so much and in a sense the need for revenge was understandable. Still, after all he did, the resolution for his part in all of this was such a satisfying thing to read.
What I didn't like though was the surprise reveal on who was acting in the shadows - Alex's mother. I knew we needed a big bad for the finale but I wished there was more foreshadowing for her appearance. There were mentions about her in the previous books but personally I didn't find those were enough.
Overall, this was still a great ending for Dom and Alex's story and I do recommend giving this series a try.
This would be 5 stars out of 5 for me.
I received an ARC of this book via GRR and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
August 31, 2022
This was a very emotional book to read, but I loved it. I finished yesterday and I feel at peace with the ending. And I know that from the first moment my favorite character has always been the same, Alexander! 🖤
This has been a incredible journey with almost ups as downs! Finally John and Alex can enjoy the sun together trick free!
I was reluctant in the beginning of the book, some choices I didn’t understand but as always Pippa delivers some amazing plot twists, full power action scenes, mission impossible tension right there, angst on the most top level ( the silo’s scenes were killing inside) steam … ohhhh the steam… Jesus Alex is the best… repeating myself but he is in fact incredible! With him it’s always raining :) they’re desire and connection it’s just top shelf *****
Loved John’s mom, the lady is tough and defendes his baby with nails and teeth! Unlike that witch bitch mom… poor Alex;(
I have to say that despite being team Alex since day 1, and also knowing Kage was a bastard I feel bad for him… He was beyond redemption but i just feel bad for him.. I can’t even justify why I just do…
Hoping Pippa can spoil her loving fans with some novella ou short story just for our full happiness in the future ( fingers crossed) and we can enjoy these two!
This has been a incredible journey with almost ups as downs! Finally John and Alex can enjoy the sun together trick free!
I was reluctant in the beginning of the book, some choices I didn’t understand but as always Pippa delivers some amazing plot twists, full power action scenes, mission impossible tension right there, angst on the most top level ( the silo’s scenes were killing inside) steam … ohhhh the steam… Jesus Alex is the best… repeating myself but he is in fact incredible! With him it’s always raining :) they’re desire and connection it’s just top shelf *****
Loved John’s mom, the lady is tough and defendes his baby with nails and teeth! Unlike that witch bitch mom… poor Alex;(
I have to say that despite being team Alex since day 1, and also knowing Kage was a bastard I feel bad for him… He was beyond redemption but i just feel bad for him.. I can’t even justify why I just do…
Hoping Pippa can spoil her loving fans with some novella ou short story just for our full happiness in the future ( fingers crossed) and we can enjoy these two!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2023
Yes! I chose this series for its X-men vibe. Gambit is the one I enjoyed reading about, the most. Second only to Wolverine and Beast. Might have to do with the Muppets. Loved that show!
What I wasn't expecting was a tentacle monster and a mother being the get away driver.
The reasoning was extending one selfish life span. The rush to be the first to discover psychic ... occult . Like back when Russia couldn't be the first to put a human on the moon. They took over Germany nazy search to show they the strongest. The search for supernatural, covenant of the ark, the actual ark etc.
At least Kage was good for a distraction. Man people should just get over themselves. How hard is it to admit ya was wrong? Sit down and be humble!
What I wasn't expecting was a tentacle monster and a mother being the get away driver.
The reasoning was extending one selfish life span. The rush to be the first to discover psychic ... occult . Like back when Russia couldn't be the first to put a human on the moon. They took over Germany nazy search to show they the strongest. The search for supernatural, covenant of the ark, the actual ark etc.
At least Kage was good for a distraction. Man people should just get over themselves. How hard is it to admit ya was wrong? Sit down and be humble!
September 13, 2022
God yessss. I just adore fantasy novels and this series was so fucking fun. Yet again, Ariana Nash has managed to pen one of my most favourite series’. I really appreciated that this wasn’t a dark romance and I really hope she writes more like this. I love her writing but don’t always want to read the darker stuff.
Honestly, regardless of how good of an urban fantasy series this was, the romance absolutely makes it. This is an “I’ll kill everything and anyone that hurts you” romance. A full “scorched earth to save you” romance. A “you’re mine and I’m never letting you go” romance. Alex and John are a morally grey, absolutely chaotic couple that I would love to read more about. They’re so great together.
I don’t know what else to say. It’s hard to describe perfection.
Honestly, regardless of how good of an urban fantasy series this was, the romance absolutely makes it. This is an “I’ll kill everything and anyone that hurts you” romance. A full “scorched earth to save you” romance. A “you’re mine and I’m never letting you go” romance. Alex and John are a morally grey, absolutely chaotic couple that I would love to read more about. They’re so great together.
I don’t know what else to say. It’s hard to describe perfection.
August 25, 2022
Without A Trace is the fifth book and was a phenomenal ending to the Shadows of London series! Everything wrapped up perfectly. All the plot and story lines were cleared up and answered with a happy and satisfying ending. This series hooked right from the beginning but Without A Trace enthralled me, I couldn’t stop turning the pages. I literally stayed up all night to finish it, read it in one sitting. I swooned and had anxiety in equal measures. I loved how Kempthorne would do anything for Dom including burning down the world! I loved the world building; this has been one of the best urban fantasies I’ve ever read. Overall, an outstanding read. Well written with that kind of pacing that trapped me! I definitely, highly recommend Without A Trace!!
September 4, 2022
It's over.
I'm happy and sad at the same time because this was the best series and now it's over...
Part 5 tortured me in the best ways.
💖❤💖❤💖
I'm happy and sad at the same time because this was the best series and now it's over...
Part 5 tortured me in the best ways.
💖❤💖❤💖
June 14, 2023
2.5 Stars
This. Book. I've never rated an Ariana Nash book so low - and a finale book at that! I have to believe that it was a 'me' problem - AN books are typically 4-5 star reads for me. *cries*
I was ready for this to be over. I wanted a better HEA for Dom and Alex. I wanted Alex to stop and I wanted Dom to stop . I ended up skimming most of the action, which had previously really engaged me in the other books.
For all the beautiful moments in the world, I just needed Alex to be more realistic. I found myself agreeing with Gina - at what point is a tortured, troubled anti-hero actually a villain?
This moment was a shock - I did not expect things to go down quite as they did! You knew Kage If I were ever to do a re-read of this series, I'd have a really hard time reading the earlier books knowing how this all plays out in the end.
Fortunately, the spice and relationship between Dom and Alex stayed true to Nash form, which basically saved this book for me. While I do wish the characterizations and plot had gone a different direction, I'm chalking this up as an anomaly and do plan to continue reading Nash's backlist!
"The world is going to see you both for the monsters you are."
This. Book. I've never rated an Ariana Nash book so low - and a finale book at that! I have to believe that it was a 'me' problem - AN books are typically 4-5 star reads for me. *cries*
I was ready for this to be over. I wanted a better HEA for Dom and Alex. I wanted Alex to stop and I wanted Dom to stop . I ended up skimming most of the action, which had previously really engaged me in the other books.
"It fits his while evil villain agenda thing he's got going on."
I slumped in my chair, folded my arms on the table, and buried my face in them. "Yeah, but he's not like that."
"Dom," Gina sighed. Her little hand rested on my bicep. "When do we start thinking that maybe he is?"
For all the beautiful moments in the world, I just needed Alex to be more realistic. I found myself agreeing with Gina - at what point is a tortured, troubled anti-hero actually a villain?
"Do it!" Kage barked. "Prove you're everything the world thinks you are, prove you're nothing more than a monster-"
This moment was a shock - I did not expect things to go down quite as they did! You knew Kage If I were ever to do a re-read of this series, I'd have a really hard time reading the earlier books knowing how this all plays out in the end.
"Want me to stop, tell me it's raining," I purred.
Fortunately, the spice and relationship between Dom and Alex stayed true to Nash form, which basically saved this book for me. While I do wish the characterizations and plot had gone a different direction, I'm chalking this up as an anomaly and do plan to continue reading Nash's backlist!
August 26, 2022
What an exciting and riveting conclusion to this series. And against all odds and my (terrified) expectations, Ariana Nash has given Dom and Alex a highly satisfying ending, one I'm 100% happy with.
"Without a Trace" was, by far, my favourite book in this series. It's an emotional, action-packed, high-stakes rollercoaster of a ride and now I feel a bit sad that I have to say goodbye to Dom and Alexander, and their crew of criminals and misfits, but mostly I feel that I can finally breathe a sigh of relief: I got the ending I was desperately hoping for, and I couldn't be happier.
I admit, some of the things that bothered me about the previous novels were still there (e.g. Dom's infuriating fickleness and quick-to-judge behaviour), but in a less persistent way. And thankfully, Dom and Alex have reached a stable, you're-it-for-me, point in their relationship, and although Alex has a few moments of heartbreaking insecurity (that will leave you both sad and angry), both of them know that they can trust each other and trust that they're in it for the long run, and the reader can trust (and feel) that too. So that was a huge relief for me, especially considering how much I abhorred the whole love triangle situation with Kage.
Characters-wise, I ended up liking Dom quite a bit in this one! I adored the fact that he's finally embraced his danger kink by being with Alex, and that he's finally stopped being judgemental about pesky little things like murder and violence. 🤣 He and Alexander were truly the perfect pair of murder husbands: I loved them to absolute death, especially when they were being ruthless together.
As usual, Alexander was my favourite: he's MY kind of character, broken and damaged and flawed and contradictory and vulnerable and insecure and weirdly sweet, and I loved him so much. I'll miss him, and his murderous, brilliant streak, the most.
"Without a Trace" has an utterly riveting plot, very complex and crammed with WTF moments, and the world building was even more mesmerizing and magical. I adored this world of artifacts and tricks and magic and shadows Ariana Nash has created, and I'll be sad to leave it behind.
I won't be giving this book a full, five star rating, because, regardless of how much I loved the finale, a few things still bothered me: Dom's behaviour, especially in the beginning, a few plot-related things that left me a bit confused and a few minor issues with the writing. And yes, also the fact that Robin wasn't miraculously resurrected: she absolutely didn't deserve to die and I'll be forever bitter and sad about that. On the other hand, at long last
So yes, minor issues aside, I still enjoyed the hell out of this book. If you're looking for something original and complex and high-stakes and action-packed, this series could be the one for you.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
"Without a Trace" was, by far, my favourite book in this series. It's an emotional, action-packed, high-stakes rollercoaster of a ride and now I feel a bit sad that I have to say goodbye to Dom and Alexander, and their crew of criminals and misfits, but mostly I feel that I can finally breathe a sigh of relief: I got the ending I was desperately hoping for, and I couldn't be happier.
I admit, some of the things that bothered me about the previous novels were still there (e.g. Dom's infuriating fickleness and quick-to-judge behaviour), but in a less persistent way. And thankfully, Dom and Alex have reached a stable, you're-it-for-me, point in their relationship, and although Alex has a few moments of heartbreaking insecurity (that will leave you both sad and angry), both of them know that they can trust each other and trust that they're in it for the long run, and the reader can trust (and feel) that too. So that was a huge relief for me, especially considering how much I abhorred the whole love triangle situation with Kage.
Characters-wise, I ended up liking Dom quite a bit in this one! I adored the fact that he's finally embraced his danger kink by being with Alex, and that he's finally stopped being judgemental about pesky little things like murder and violence. 🤣 He and Alexander were truly the perfect pair of murder husbands: I loved them to absolute death, especially when they were being ruthless together.
As usual, Alexander was my favourite: he's MY kind of character, broken and damaged and flawed and contradictory and vulnerable and insecure and weirdly sweet, and I loved him so much. I'll miss him, and his murderous, brilliant streak, the most.
"Without a Trace" has an utterly riveting plot, very complex and crammed with WTF moments, and the world building was even more mesmerizing and magical. I adored this world of artifacts and tricks and magic and shadows Ariana Nash has created, and I'll be sad to leave it behind.
I won't be giving this book a full, five star rating, because, regardless of how much I loved the finale, a few things still bothered me: Dom's behaviour, especially in the beginning, a few plot-related things that left me a bit confused and a few minor issues with the writing. And yes, also the fact that Robin wasn't miraculously resurrected: she absolutely didn't deserve to die and I'll be forever bitter and sad about that. On the other hand, at long last
So yes, minor issues aside, I still enjoyed the hell out of this book. If you're looking for something original and complex and high-stakes and action-packed, this series could be the one for you.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2022
"I'd left him for a few days and he'd started a revolution?"
Is there anything sexier than an Alexander Kempthorne in commanding mode? I don't think so and I'm positive Dom would agree. The final book in the Shadows of London series has us racing against a clock so to speak. The alphabet agencies are all too aware of Dom and Kempthorne, Kage has gone off the deep end, and Dom is too much of a bleeding freaking heart to let the world go to hell in a handbasket while he still has breath in his lungs. Things are moving at breakneck speed towards to climactic ending, yet there's still plenty of moments for my favorite pair to bring the steam and romance.
"I hadn't planned for John to be my heart in a world where I'd thought myself incapable of having one."
In book 5 finally, finally, all the secrets are out there. Dom knows it all. It might send him into a bit of a tailspin but nothing, not even the truth, is going to keep Dom from his man. Like puzzle pieces they fit. Honestly, I don't think they'd fit for anyone else. It's almost like their tricks were made for each other and when it all comes to a head their trick and their devotion to each other is what they have to rely on. Saving the world isn't going to be easy, but with these two men together what's impossible takes on a new meaning. It's a gritty fight until the end, but I couldn't be happier that Dom and Kempthorne get the HEA they no doubt deserved.
Is there anything sexier than an Alexander Kempthorne in commanding mode? I don't think so and I'm positive Dom would agree. The final book in the Shadows of London series has us racing against a clock so to speak. The alphabet agencies are all too aware of Dom and Kempthorne, Kage has gone off the deep end, and Dom is too much of a bleeding freaking heart to let the world go to hell in a handbasket while he still has breath in his lungs. Things are moving at breakneck speed towards to climactic ending, yet there's still plenty of moments for my favorite pair to bring the steam and romance.
"I hadn't planned for John to be my heart in a world where I'd thought myself incapable of having one."
In book 5 finally, finally, all the secrets are out there. Dom knows it all. It might send him into a bit of a tailspin but nothing, not even the truth, is going to keep Dom from his man. Like puzzle pieces they fit. Honestly, I don't think they'd fit for anyone else. It's almost like their tricks were made for each other and when it all comes to a head their trick and their devotion to each other is what they have to rely on. Saving the world isn't going to be easy, but with these two men together what's impossible takes on a new meaning. It's a gritty fight until the end, but I couldn't be happier that Dom and Kempthorne get the HEA they no doubt deserved.
October 26, 2022
What a wild ride. I’ve gotta applaud Ariana Nash for creating a compelling 5 book series following one couple and getting each book out in a great time frame. My experience with fantasy books in the past is it takes authors bloody years to get the books out or they just suddenly and infuriatingly stop writing in the middle of a series but Ariana Nash is committed and I love it.
This is definitely not a stand-alone and needs to be read in order starting with book 1. In the true style of this author even on book 5 part of me wondered if one of our MC’s was going to end up being the mega villain and our main good guy would end up with someone else. Or maybe the good guy would end up the mega villain? Wouldn’t put it past her.
This book has plenty of action! My personal tastes towards fantasy books has waned a little so that’s why this wasn’t a five star for me and I’ve found the series becoming more fantasy based as it’s gone on but I do think it’s urban fantasy done well. The plot is complex and clearly alot of thought and planning has gone into how it all panned out. As much as Ariana Nash does evil things to her characters I can tell how much she loves them through her writing and these guys will be missed.
I kindly received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is definitely not a stand-alone and needs to be read in order starting with book 1. In the true style of this author even on book 5 part of me wondered if one of our MC’s was going to end up being the mega villain and our main good guy would end up with someone else. Or maybe the good guy would end up the mega villain? Wouldn’t put it past her.
This book has plenty of action! My personal tastes towards fantasy books has waned a little so that’s why this wasn’t a five star for me and I’ve found the series becoming more fantasy based as it’s gone on but I do think it’s urban fantasy done well. The plot is complex and clearly alot of thought and planning has gone into how it all panned out. As much as Ariana Nash does evil things to her characters I can tell how much she loves them through her writing and these guys will be missed.
I kindly received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review.
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