The Lady is Trouble

League of Lords, Book 1

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Pub Date Feb 18 2020 | Archive Date Mar 15 2020

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Description

In the first in Tracy Sumner’s sizzling League of Lords historical series, mysticism in Victorian England is the setting for a captivating love affair . . .

He’s a viscount with a dark past who yearns for the one woman he can’t have. She’s rebellious, spurned by society and determined to change his mind.

What’s a defiant woman to do when the man she’s meant for doesn’t believe in love?

After three years of waiting for Julian Alexander to realize they are destined to be together, Lady Piper Scott takes matters into her own hands. Because her gift as a healer has never done anything but distance her from the most principled man in England. A meaningless diversion as a medium, all done to gain a certain wandering viscount’s attention, backfires. As most endeavors have for a woman known in the ton as Scandalous Scott.

What’s a reluctant viscount to do when the woman he can’t have becomes the woman he can’t live without?

Julian Alexander, Lord Beauchamp, battled his way from the lowliest slum to assume his title. He carries not only a turbulent past, but a mystical psychic gift that separates him from society. Honorable to his core, he is committed to protecting a community of outcasts with abilities like his own. He has no time, no place, for love. Or repeatedly rescuing the most outrageous, beguiling woman he’s ever known. Even if she needs his protection most—and he desires her above all others.

Seduction, intrigue and desire lead to an explosive passion…

Julian vowed to shield Piper from the deadly foes seeking to possess her powerful gift. Although he needs her help in controlling his own, the mix could be deadly. Soon what was once a simple agreement to work together becomes enchantingly complex as they surrender to a timeless love…

In the first in Tracy Sumner’s sizzling League of Lords historical series, mysticism in Victorian England is the setting for a captivating love affair . . .

He’s a viscount with a dark past who yearns...


Advance Praise

Praise for Tracy Sumner's novels:
“Delicious and amusing…witty dialogue, sparkling humor and a snappy narrative. A must read!” —The Best Reviews

“Terrific dialogue…and hot loves scenes. If you haven’t read Tracy Sumner before, Tides of Passion is a good place to start.” —All About Romance

“A powerful relationship novel that explores the heartache and triumph of love.” —Romantic Times

“The battle of the sexes heats up the pages of this fun and fresh romance by talented new writer Tracy Sumner.” —New York Times bestselling author Susan Wiggs

Praise for Tracy Sumner's novels:
“Delicious and amusing…witty dialogue, sparkling humor and a snappy narrative. A must read!” —The Best Reviews

“Terrific dialogue…and hot loves scenes. If you haven’t...


Available Editions

ISBN 9781659202083
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Average rating from 51 members


Featured Reviews

I enjoyed that this historical romance added a twist of the paranormal, having the main characters have psychic gifts. At times it was frustrating wanting the main couple to work on their issues instead of dancing around it but the mystery and tension of seeing if and how the villain will get to them kept me reading.

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I received an ARC of The Lady is Trouble by Tracy Sumner from Netgalley. Lady Elizabeth Scott, aka Piper, granddaughter to an Earl and Julian Alexander, Viscount Beauchamp have mystical talents. However, these special powers collide with each other and their coming together becomes difficult. This is the first story I have read by this author and she has me thoroughly intrigued The story introduces many other characters with special powers as well, people with supernatural abilities and talents and each troubled with their inability to understand their gift. Julian hopes to create a safe haven, a League, for them where they are neither harrassed nor made pariah because of their gift...a place for "healing and support and assistance". A beautiful love story of facing whatever comes in the way to achieve a HEA.

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After three years of waiting for Julian Alexander to realize they are destined to be together, Lady Piper Scott takes matters into her own hands. When I started reading I couldn't put it down.Tracy Sumner is magnifysent and amazing writer.I cannot wait to read more of there books.Keep up the great work.You should definitely read this book.Can't wait for the next book.

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This is the first book I have read by this author, and while this book was slow to start, I grew to enjoy it and look forward to reading the rest of this series.

The book opens with the reader dropped directly into the chaos with no real idea who any of the people are, where all the action is happening and why everyone is busy brooding angstily. Instead of feeling like the action is self explanatory, the reader is treated to a few chapters of very descriptive prose that doesn’t really answer any questions beyond knowing that the leads are two difficult people too stubborn to admit their love, and that there has been An Event ™ in the past. At this point the reader needs to just have faith and keep reading.

The story soon blossoms into a pleasant blend of historical romance and paranormal thriller. Once the reader makes it out of London, the characters’ motivations, and back stories, become clear. From there the book becomes a real page-turner full of psychic talents, hot romance and suspense.

If you like Jayne Anne Krentz/Jayne Castle’s paranormal series, this is a solid author to add to your reading list.

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What a man to do when the woman he cares for is in danger and is unwilling to hide ...

I confess I felt quite lost during the first pages, I did not know where I was, the thoughts of the characters were very confusing.
But I am so a fan of marvels and I loved the league of extraordinary gentlemen, I wanted to see where this story would lead me.
It was a difficult read, the slow beginning did not help, hopefully I loved all the side characters and now can’t wait for their own story.
It took me time, and even if the main couple are not my favorite heroes, I needed to know what may happen to them and their friends.
Piper is too reckless and a risk taker when everyone around her is trying to protect the asset she might be to their group. She is not some debutante fresh out the nursery, still she mostly acts like one.
Her lack of maturity was what drove me away from her, she might be shown as the most important paranormal, her endangering decisions and ineptitude to put aside her lust when Julian needs her soothing power gave mostly a picture of a spoiled brat than a confident efficient woman.
She always questioned his feelings when by his deeds, even when wrongly done, he proved again and again she was the queen of his heart.
Julian is far from perfect too but he lived a life filled only with pain and hurt, yet he never let madness take hold of him. Piper was his light in the dark, his salvation but because he does not know how his gift will evolve, he is not always able to differentiate between his deepest feelings, his lust and the attractiveness of her own gift. He is scared to hurt her, thus he keeps her at arms length.
What I can praise Piper is she runs after him, but with blinders, as she is unable to see past her own doubts. Why she often takes a step forward then two back.

This book is like a big cat and mouse game, Julian after the hiding gifted, Piper after Julian, Julian rescuing Piper, the villain after Piper, everyone after Piper and so on.
I felt like I was watching a pilot episode unfolding before me, the background plot presenting the full cast with two playmakers.
Still I want now to learn more about the many protagonists, Finn, Simon, Ashcroft, Humphrey, Minnie..
3.5 rounded up to stars

I was granted an advance copy on Netgalley by the author, I preordered my own ecopy.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.

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The Lady is Trouble, an interesting read that while may have been a bit slow in the start it did pick up and totally sucked me in.

A historical, X-Men kind of novel, we are introduced to Julian, Viscount Beauchamp, with a gift to be able to transport into other peoples thoughts, images by touching personal items. He is on a mission to collect other souls that suffer with similar gifts and offer them protection. Creating a League were they can accept their gifts and not live in fear. Accepting what they have and not being afraid to live with them. Some of them are tortured souls that struggle with their gifts and how to manage it.

Piper is our heroine. The healer of this group. She is treasured by Julian. She has been with him for many years, he has loved her for as many, but he does not feel he deserves chance to be with her. While they share so much, their roads are to be different. His job is to protect her, as she is the only one that can calm and sooth those that carry the gift. The only one that can heal and soothe him.

Their story takes a bit to engage you. It was a little slow to start up. Somewhat dark and full of shadows. But if you give it a chance and explore their world you will find it pulling you in. Starting to enjoy learning about the supporting characters. There is no glittering ballrooms and moments that make you sigh. This is a different level of romance, a much serious note. While their attraction was there, it was a bit slow to simmer for me. Yet, I did enjoy these two as a couple. They were strong characters. At the end, I was happy with their happily ever after.

I am looking forward to Finns story, and not to mention if we will have one with the Duke of Ashcroft.

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This is an enjoyable first book in a series. A historical, paranormal, suspense novel. Julian is the leader of the League, which is a collection of misfit people with supernatural powers. Piper is his longtime friend whom he has been protecting for years because of the the danger she is in due to her being a much needed and rare healer.

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The Lady is Trouble by Tracy Sumner
League of Lords #1

In 1854 London there is a man working hard to create a safe place for those with “gifts” that usually see them in hiding or ensconced in insane asylums. As children the gifted child is often considered to have evil within and beating or torturing it out seems the best way to deal with the situation...I mean...evil would leave if it was uncomfortable in its host, right? The man who has a vision of a better place for these people with paranormal abilities is being set up by Viscount Julian Alexander – Lord Beauchamp. Further into the book I found that there were those that came before him that also were working to find a solution for the gifted.

Anyway...Julian is focused on his goal, collecting those that he finds and sending them to this safe haven and also dealing with the personal conflict of needing to protect and keep safe Lady Piper Scott while also feeling very strong rather positive lusty emotions for her. And, as the lady is equally if not more positively and lustily inclined toward Julian and not willing to wait any longer has ended up in London trying to get his attention and THAT is where this story begins...with him coming to find/rescue her (again?).

What I liked:
* It was different
* The paranormal elements
* Piper’s strength and ability to see what she wanted and go after it
* Julian’s protective nature – also liked him a LOT when he let his hair down...or took off his apparel
* The supporting characters that may get books of their own
* The possibilities for the series
* The thread of the “evil” person out to cause strife

What I didn’t like or thought could have been better or clearer:
* Perhaps a prologue that would have given a bit of a hint to what the book was about
* Using the current terms for each paranormal gift with a glossary might have helped as each person/gift was introduced
* A bit more backstory for the main characters

Did I enjoy this book? For the most part, yes
Would I read more in the series? Yes
Do I believe there is potential for the series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

3-4 Stars

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Piper has been hidden away in the country for her own protection, but she is done with it. Knowing that if she goes out in public as a medium and under a specific fake name, Julian will come track her down. She is tried of being locked away in the country and not helping those like her. She also just desires to see Julian, since he has been keeping his distance from her.

Julian made a promise to Piper's grandfather on his deathbed, that he would not pursue his feelings for her. So he had kept himself away from her. But when her life is threatened, all bets are off. He will do anything to protect her, even if it means risking his heart.

Can Julian protect Piper without breaking his promise to her grandfather?

I was very confused at the beginning of the story, I just couldn't follow along with what was going on. But I soldiered on and continued reading. I ended up really enjoying the book, although there were times, that what was going on, had me just as confused as the start of the book did. I really enjoyed the feistiness of Piper and the fact that she finally made the decision to take power back over her own life. She saw what she wanted and went after it!!

This is a book that has people with supernatural powers, so if that is not your thing, you might want to skip it. I really enjoyed the secondary characters and can't wait to see what Sumner comes up with for their stories (assuming she is...)!

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The first book in a new Victorian Paranormal Romantic Suspense series, The Lady is Trouble is a fun read. Full of unforgettable characters that leave you hungry for more of their stories, it is easy to see that this series will be an addictive and fun adventure. The sexual chemistry and tension between Lady Piper Scott and the man she truly desires, Lord Beauchamp (Julian Alexander). Julian strives to keep a distance between himself and Piper... but it seems to become more and more difficult. Her magical gifts of healing make it impossible to stay away from her as he pays a huge price physically, mentally and emotionally for the visions. His gift, his curse is the visions while hers is healing. Julian has also taken charge of a band of people from all different class systems and backgrounds with special abilities. (Sort of like a Victorian era XMEN!)

Someone else needs Piper's healing abilities and it isn't good news for Julian's crew. They all try to protect her but she has earned her nickname of Scandalous Scott for her impetuous, often rebellious behavior. The lady after Piper battles insanity with her dark gifts and vows that nothing will keep her from the relief that only Piper can offer.

What I loved: The sizzle between Piper and Julian nearly burned my fingers! Whew! I also like that author Tracy Sumner is able to write from both Julian and Piper's perspectives which I think is challenging to create different voices, especially internal monologues. I like the story line and the plot twists and there is a good amount of character development that I appreciate!! The book starts out slow and speeds up rapidly!!

What I wasn't crazy about: Understanding that I read an ARC and there is more editing to come before the final publish date: the last part (climax) seemed too rushed, without enough action in the climax. Also wasn't real clear on whether Lady Piper Scott is actually titled as a lady or not...

I can not wait until the next book is released!! Hopefully very very soon!!


Thank you to NetGalley, author Tracy Sumner, and publisher BookBuzz for my temporary, advance digital review copy for me to read and enjoy!!
#TheLadyisTrouble #NetGalley

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He’s a viscount with a dark past who yearns for the one woman he can’t have. She’s a psychic firebrand. Rebellious, spurned by society and determined to change his mind.
After three years of waiting for Julian Alexander to realize they are destined to be together, Lady Elizabeth Scott aka Piper takes matters into her own hands. Because her gift as a healer has never done anything but distance her from the most principled man in England. Julian Alexander, Lord Beauchamp, battled his way from the lowliest slum to assume his title. He carries not only a turbulent past, but a mystical psychic gift that separates him from society. Honourable to his core, he is committed to protecting a community of outcasts with abilities like his own.
This is the first in a new series & I must admit I struggled with the first few pages & felt like I was in a fog. However I persevered & I’m so glad I did as I was soon engrossed. A well written book that flowed well. The characters are well portrayed & have plenty of depth. It took me some time to like Julian & Piper but the further I delved into the book the more I liked them. The combination of romance with the supernatural was refreshing & it worked. I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

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The Lady is Trouble (League of Lords) by Tracy Summer, is a new series for the Lords historical series. Set in the splendor, gothic, and mystical Victorian England.
Julian Alexander, Lord Beauchamp, who has mystical psychic gift that separates him from the ton.  Lady Piper Scott, aka Scandalous Scot, named thus by the ton. Piper is a psychic firebrand and trouble.
Well written and well crafted. The characters are engaging and interesting. Although, the beginning is a bit confusing, I feel THE LADY IS TROUBLE is a tale of sizzling encounters, seduction, intrigue, mysticism and paranormal abilities with a captivating love affair.
Piper and Julian's story is tantalizing, sizzling and a battle of the sexes.
Overall, THE LADY IS TROUBLE, has twists and turns, mystical and paranormal abilities with sensual tension between Piper and Julian, which leads to a consuming and entertaining tale.
Readers are sure to enjoy this tale of mystical danger, a love story, a very entertaining read twith all the sizzle some readers enjoy. Strongly recommended! I absolutely enjoyed this tale with many facets and characters who grabbed my attention. Enjoyable and satisfying read!
"I voluntarily received a complimentary copy, however,  these are my honest opinions. I was in no way required nor compensated to write a review."
#NetGalley, #TheLadyisTrouble

Rating: 4
Heat rating: Steamy
Reviewer: AprilR

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A fun start to a new historical romance series with a paranormal twist!

Julian Alexander was handed the mantle of head of The League of Lords to safeguard Piper and her legacy from her grandfather, the Occult Earl. The Lague, a secret society of metaphysically gifted people, must hide from those that would abuse their powers to their own ends. Lady Piper Scott is not only rightful heir to The League but its most precious secret. She was secreted away for 3 long years but the Scandalous Scott will hide no longer and nor will she be denied her rightful place by Julian's side.

All in all, I had fun with this story. The plot was unique and entertaining with a lot of secondary characters that are fun to follow. I will admit, the first 1/4 of the book you are a bit disoriented trying to figure out what all is going on. I love a fun paranormal twist. I will admit to feeling a bit beleaguered on behalf of Piper. She was constantly edged out of everything. And while I understand period pieces and women didn't really have a say in what happened to them but still. She kept getting the short-end of the stick and then people complained when she went off and did what she wanted to do in the first place. Some people just aren't biddable, (*raises hand*) just ain't gonna happen. Yes, she was impulsive but how much maturity (drawn from the experience of knowing better) do you expect her to have if she's constantly hushed and put in the corner. Sometimes you just have to let people grow up and sometimes fall flat on their face.

And while I had fun reading, I felt the pacing kind of stalled in some places AND the big fight scene could have really been expanded upon. The big bad baddie and what they did was sort of glossed over in an internal monologue and then poof, over. If it was a word count thing we could have heard less about paint colors maybe? Also, I really would have liked some more detail on the healings between Piper and Julian.

Again, overall, this was a fun start to a new series. I am really looking forward to the next one! Hopefully, we're off to hear about Finn next.

*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.*

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A Victorian paranormal romance! Mystic overtones give a different twist!

Love her or protect her? There seems to be no middle ground for Julian Alexander, Lord Beauchamp and Lady Piper Scott, known as the Scandalous Scott.
They are part of group of people whose unusual talents have left them as pariahs and outcastes. Drawn from all different areas of society they are vulnerable or dangerous to themselves and others if their gifts can't be trained
Julian has followed his mentor's lead to bring together these mystic misfits into a supportive League. "Piper’s grandfather had started the society years ago as a place for those genuinely afflicted with a mystical talent to find shelter because to be afflicted was nothing short of a cruel fate." Piper, his mentor's granddaughter, and the true love of his life is a healer. He promised his mentor to not pursue her but protect to her. That struggle between Honor and love almost destroys them.
As a boy Julian had fled his father's cruelty to the stews of St Giles and survived with others of his ilk, the gorgeous Finn and Humphrey.
Piper has loved Julian since she first saw him when her grandfather had brought him to their home. Older now, wild and restless Piper knows she can help him, but will his fears conquer his love. Their togetherness when it comes is enough to move mountains and shake the world off its axis.
At the same time a dark force has centered on Piper and she is in danger.
What sent this story into the five star stratosphere was that when I reflected on my response I had found myself being sucked in, swallowed really, into the troubling forces at work that gave this novel an edgy mysterious wedge. Along with the push and pull of explosive emotions between Piper and Julian, I was hooked. Now I'm wondering about Finn!

An Independent ARC via NetGalley

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The book is full of people who have special gifts that have caused the majority of them to be outcast even from their own family. Julian is trying to establish a residence where he and others like himself can live in peace and learn to deal with their unique gifts. Piper is one of three healers who has been documented to have been born since the 1500’s and her life is in danger because of this gift. Julian has loved her since he met her and is determined to keep her and the others safe. The story is s beautiful love story but one where he denies himself his happiness with Piper. As her life is in danger, he comes to realize he needs to be with her. The story is well written with a different twist to most love stories. I would highly recommend it as a great read. Hopefully, Finn and Ashcroft will be getting their own story in the near future.

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Normally not one for paranormal in my books, but this book was fabulous. Ms Summer makes the reader feel like they are right there with the characters.. Julian and Piper are smoking hot characters that you want to find a way to be together. Not only that, but the author does an excellent job of making the secondary characters feel like family. I cannot wait to read the next book.

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This is my fair and honest review, voluntary and in my own words, for this ARC. I am not a fan of supernatural by any stretch, and I am not sure what drew me to this book, but so glad that whatever it was did. So well written. A cast of outcasts that rival any others. "gifts" that frighten those without, but heal those who do have their own. Intrigue, pain, sadness, friendship and so much love. You will enjoy this book, no question.

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The Lady is Trouble by Tracy Sumner follows Julian Alexander and Piper Scott, in what is the first book of the series (League of Lords). In his youth, Julian (Lord Beauchamp) struggled with his psychic powers and found Piper's grandfather, a great source of wisdom and his mentor. When Piper’s grandfather is murdered, Julian realises that Piper is in danger and endeavours to protect her by hiding her and keeping her safe. Yet in doing so, he finds himself wanting her yet knowing that he can’t have everything that he desires.
This story had elements of the X-Men, giving this an interesting aspect. The characters are well developed and the romance, is carefully interwoven into a story with suspense and mystery. This was a novel story line that I quite enjoyed. I look forward to seeing how this series develops.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

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WOW!!! What an amazing book! I love Historical Romance and this is one of the best I have read in a while. It's sort of an unrequited, second-chance, action-packed, dramatically dangerous love story that revolves a group of psychics all rolled into one and set in Victorian England! The chemistry between Piper and Julian was unmistakable and the build-up of the danger to Piper created by the author kept me interested all the way throughout the book. Such a good book! This is another author that is going onto my favorites list and I will be watching for new books in this series to be released in the future!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided to me by NetGalley.

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<strong>Supernatural romance</strong>

Mysticism and the paranormal interact with love between Julian Alexander and Piper Scott. He's a viscount, an artist and when he touches objects he has the ability to connect into the world of the previous owner(s). Lady Piper Scott is the granddaughter of an earl, has the ability to heal with a touch and loves Julian passionately. Their worlds interact and collide. An interesting first book in a new series which includes very passionate sex.

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I loved the paranormal aspect of this book. Romance was also good with some passionate scenes between. I am new to this author, but I won't pass her books from now on.
I read this book in 48hrs and the ending was not only satisfying but it made me crave for more books by this author!

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The book was exceptionally good. I read at least 5 books each week and this was the best historical romance I’ve read in months. 5+ stars.

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This is a lengthy, well.-written story. The storyline pulls you in and doesn't let you go until the end. The characters are given life in the pages. Definitely worth the read!!

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i immensely enjoyed this book. Tracy Summer wove a story I was swept into with ease and happily floated down the river of. The characters were well crafted and I was impressed by the prose. The only things I can comment on were I wish the imagery had been a bit more detailed and I also wish the expiation at the end of the book tying the ducal family’s pain together would have been more intense.. . I greatly enjoyed this book and look foreword to reading more from the author.

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Hot sweet Victorian romance. I can't wait to read more in this series.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

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Although Paranormal are not usually one of my preferred genres, Regency Romances are. This was an entertaining combination. I found the story to be a bit chaotic at the onset, but it leveled out fairly quickly.
I enjoyed the interaction and chemistry between our main characters.
I definitely will recommend this book.
Thank you Tracy Sumner and NetGalley for allowing me an advance copy.

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This book was s low starting for me. A bit gothic in tone and wasn't what I was in the mood for unfortunately. It was well enough written just didn't hold my interest.

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