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James by Chantal Fernando, book cover

James Summary

by Chantal Fernando

4.08 Goodreads · 3k ratingsRomance261 pages15-min summary

A heartbroken woman, betrayed by the man she thought was her 'everything,' must decide whether to fight for a second chance with him when he reappears with a new love, or finally let go of the past and move on.

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By BookBrief EditorialPublished February 2026How we write summaries

Synopsis

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

Sasha Crawford, a heartbroken romantic, still feels the end of her relationship with James Steele, who she saw with another woman. Two years later, Sasha tries to move on through casual dating. Her world changes when she meets James again. James, now a successful businessman, is in a relationship with Tatiana, a colleague who understands his need for secrecy because of his dangerous past with a drug cartel. Despite his commitment to Tatiana, James still cares for Sasha and wants to win her back. Sasha is torn between her feelings for James, her anger over his past betrayal, and her desire for answers. As they navigate their attraction, James faces the secrets that drove them apart. Sasha must decide if she can forgive him and risk her heart again. James's dangerous past threatens their rekindled passion, forcing Sasha to face the reality of the threats that come with loving him. She must choose if she can accept his world for a chance at a true future together.
Difficulty
Easy
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Romantic, Emotional, Suspenseful
Read it if
You enjoy second-chance romances with a bit of suspense and a hero with a complicated past.
Skip it if
You dislike love triangles or heroes with significant secrets that impact the plot.

James Plot Summary

Covers the whole plot, including the ending.

  1. A Chance Encounter and Lingering Feelings

    Sasha Crawford is out with friends, trying to enjoy herself and forget her past heartbreak, when she runs into James Steele at a nightclub. Seeing him, still captivating, brings back painful memories and attraction. James is there with Tatiana, his current girlfriend, a fact Sasha notices with jealousy and renewed hurt. Their first exchange is brief and awkward, full of unspoken history and tension. Sasha's friends notice her distress. James struggles to stay composed in Tatiana's presence, clearly affected by Sasha's return. The encounter sets the stage for their complicated relationship to rekindle.

  2. The Weight of Secrecy

    After the club, James thinks only of Sasha. He remembers the secrets that drove them apart, specifically his family's ties to the criminal underworld. He recalls deciding to push Sasha away to protect her, believing she would be safer without him. His current relationship with Tatiana, while stable and supportive, lacks the passion he shared with Sasha. Tatiana knows about his secretive life, making her an understanding partner for his current situation. However, Sasha's return makes James face the sacrifices he made and his deep regret for hurting her, wondering if he made the right choice.

  3. Sasha's Resolve and Confusion

    Sasha, still reeling from seeing James with Tatiana, tries to move on. She focuses on her work and her new dating life, using it as a distraction rather than a real search for love. But James is constantly on her mind. She feels anger, betrayal, and an undeniable pull toward him. Her friends try to support her, urging her to confront James for answers or to close that chapter for good. Sasha is torn between wanting to escape the pain and needing to understand why he left her, especially now that he seems to have moved on so easily.

  4. A Risky Reconnection

    Unable to ignore his feelings or the need for closure, James contacts Sasha. He knows it is risky, especially with Tatiana in his life, but he feels he must explain his past actions. Sasha is hesitant but agrees to meet, desperate for the answers he withheld. Their first conversations are tense and emotional. Sasha demands explanations for his sudden abandonment and the appearance of another woman. James struggles to explain his dangerous life without revealing too much, trying to convey why he needed distance without scaring her more. This meeting reopens old wounds but also reignites a spark between them.

  5. Tatiana's Awareness and James's Conflict

    Tatiana, observant, notices James's growing distraction and emotional distance. She senses that Sasha's return has deeply unsettled him and that his feelings for his ex are not resolved. While she tries to understand his past, his increasing contact with Sasha creates tension in their relationship. James is caught between his loyalty and affection for Tatiana and the overwhelming pull he still feels toward Sasha. He knows he must decide but is paralyzed by the potential consequences for both women, and the dangerous implications for his own life if his secrets were fully exposed.

  6. Unveiling the Truth, Partially

    During a series of increasingly intimate conversations, James begins to tell Sasha parts of his dangerous world. He explains that his past actions, including his sudden departure and seeming betrayal, were to protect her from the criminal elements he was involved with. He does not tell her everything, fearing for her safety, but he gives her enough information to understand the seriousness of his situation and the sacrifices he believed he was making for her. This partial revelation changes Sasha's view, turning her anger into understanding, fear, and renewed love, as she realizes his unspoken sacrifice.

  7. A Rekindled Passion and a Difficult Choice

    With some of the truth revealed, the passion between James and Sasha reignites. They share tender and intense moments, confirming their deep emotional and physical connection. These encounters make James face the fact that he still deeply loves Sasha. He knows he cannot continue to lead Tatiana on, nor can he ignore his feelings for Sasha. The situation becomes impossible, pushing James to the point of choosing between the stable, understanding relationship with Tatiana and the passionate, but potentially dangerous, future with Sasha.

  8. The Confrontation and the Breakup

    Facing his inner conflict, James decides to end his relationship with Tatiana. He has a heartfelt, though painful, conversation with her, explaining that while he cares for her, his heart still belongs to Sasha. Tatiana, though hurt, shows understanding and maturity, recognizing that James's feelings for Sasha were too strong to overcome. The breakup is difficult for both, but it clears the path for James to commit fully to Sasha, knowing he must face the consequences of his choices and the dangers that come with being with her.

  9. Sasha's Acceptance and Fear

    Sasha, now aware of James's dangerous lifestyle, decides to accept him and the risks that come with their relationship. Her love for him outweighs her fear, but she is not naive about the potential consequences. She tells James her anxieties and concerns. He reassures her of his commitment to protecting her. Their reunion is filled with joy and a sense of apprehension, as they both understand that their love story will be far from ordinary. Sasha is ready to fight for their future, but the shadow of James's secrets still looms.

  10. A New Beginning, With Lingering Threats

    With their relationship rekindled and committed, James and Sasha begin to build a new future together. James continues to navigate his complicated and dangerous world, but now with Sasha by his side, fully aware of the risks. They face challenges from his past connections and the constant threat of his criminal ties. External pressures and the constant need for vigilance test their love. The story ends with James and Sasha together, their bond strong, but with the understanding that their journey will always be dangerous, and their love will be continuously challenged by the life James leads.

James Characters

James Steele

Protagonist

A man torn between love and a life of dangerous secrets.

James is a complex and enigmatic figure, burdened by a secretive past tied to a criminal underworld. He is deeply protective, which led him to push Sasha away to ensure her safety. Despite his tough exterior, he possesses a profound capacity for love and regret. He is initially in a relationship with Tatiana, a woman who understands his need for discretion, but his heart never truly moved on from Sasha. His internal conflict drives much of the narrative, as he struggles to reconcile his dangerous life with his desire for a normal, loving relationship.

Relationships: Sasha Crawford (Deep, passionate, and complicated romantic love; ex-girlfriend, then rekindled relationship.); Tatiana (Supportive, understanding girlfriend; eventual ex-girlfriend.)

Sasha Crawford

Protagonist

A heartbroken romantic seeking closure and a second chance at love.

Sasha is initially portrayed as a 'foolish romantic' who was deeply hurt by James's sudden abandonment and perceived betrayal. Her heartbreak led her to a cynical view of love, using dating as a distraction. However, she possesses an underlying strength and an unwavering belief in true love. When James re-enters her life, she is torn between her anger and her undeniable attraction to him. She is determined to get answers and eventually displays the courage to accept James's dangerous life for the sake of their love.

Relationships: James Steele (Deep, passionate, and complicated romantic love; ex-boyfriend, then rekindled relationship.)

Tatiana

Supporting

James's understanding and supportive girlfriend.

Tatiana is James's current girlfriend at the beginning of the story. She is portrayed as a lovely, understanding woman who works with James and has a degree of awareness about his secretive life. She provides stability and support to James, accepting his need for discretion. While she genuinely cares for James, she is perceptive enough to notice his emotional shift when Sasha reappears. She ultimately handles their breakup with maturity and dignity, recognizing that James's heart belongs elsewhere.

Relationships: James Steele (Romantic relationship that eventually ends.)

Sasha's Friends

Supporting

Sasha's loyal confidantes and emotional support system.

Sasha's friends are a vital part of her support system. They are present during her initial heartbreak and her attempts to move on. They offer advice, comfort, and encouragement, urging her to either confront James or let him go. They are protective of Sasha and wary of James due to his past actions, but they ultimately stand by her as she navigates her complicated feelings and choices. They represent the voice of reason and concern for Sasha's well-being.

Relationships: Sasha Crawford (Close, supportive friendships.)

James Themes

The Price of Secrecy and Protection

This theme explores the consequences of keeping secrets, even when trying to protect loved ones. James's decision to push Sasha away to shield her from his dangerous life causes pain and heartbreak for both. His secrets create a barrier that almost separates them permanently, showing how good intentions can lead to damaging outcomes. The narrative shows the emotional toll secrecy takes, as seen in James's guilt and Sasha's confusion and betrayal, until partial truths begin to heal the rift.

“Some secrets are meant to stay buried, but others, they just tear you apart.”
Narrator (implied through James's internal thoughts)

Second Chances and Forgiveness

The novel features the idea of second chances, especially in love and forgiveness. Sasha is at first unforgiving of James's past actions. As she learns more about his reasons, she struggles with forgiving him for the pain he caused. The story argues that true love can overcome past hurts and betrayals, if there is understanding and a willingness to communicate. Their reunion shows the power of a second chance, suggesting that some connections are too strong to be broken permanently, even by significant past mistakes.

“Heartbreak changes you. But sometimes, it also shows you what you're truly willing to fight for.”
Sasha Crawford (internal thought)

Love Versus Security

A central conflict is the choice between passionate, risky love and a stable, secure relationship. James is torn between Sasha, the woman he deeply loves but whose presence brings danger, and Tatiana, who offers understanding and a less complicated future. Sasha, too, must choose whether to embrace a life with James, knowing it will be dangerous, or to seek a safer path. The novel champions the idea that deep love is worth the risks, suggesting that true happiness is following one's heart, even into uncertainty.

“He knew he had a choice to make, but his heart had already made it for him the moment he saw her again.”
Narrator

The Nature of Betrayal and Trust

Betrayal and rebuilding trust are important to the plot. Sasha first feels betrayed by James's abandonment and his quick move to another woman. Her journey involves understanding his actions, which changes her view of his 'betrayal.' The story explores how trust, once broken, can be rebuilt through honesty (even partial honesty) and consistent effort. James's struggle to earn back Sasha's trust, and her eventual decision to trust him despite the risks, shows the complex and fragile nature of trust in relationships.

“How could he expect her to trust him, when all he’d ever done was push her away?”
Sasha Crawford (internal thought)

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

The Love Triangle

A classic romantic conflict involving three characters.

The love triangle between James, Sasha, and Tatiana is a central plot device. It creates immediate tension and conflict from the story's outset, forcing James to confront his unresolved feelings for Sasha while in a committed relationship with Tatiana. This device highlights James's internal struggle and provides a clear external obstacle to his reunion with Sasha, intensifying the emotional stakes. It also allows for the exploration of themes like loyalty, choice, and the pain of being the 'other' person, ultimately serving to prove the strength of James and Sasha's bond when James chooses to dismantle it.

The Dangerous Secret

A hidden past that threatens the protagonist's relationships.

James's involvement in a criminal underworld, and the secrets surrounding it, serves as the primary external conflict driver. This device justifies his initial abandonment of Sasha, provides the reason for his emotional distance, and creates constant tension regarding Sasha's safety. It raises the stakes for their rekindled relationship, as Sasha must decide if she can accept a life shadowed by danger. The gradual unveiling of these secrets propels the plot forward, offering explanations for past actions and creating new challenges for the couple to overcome, making their love feel hard-won and precarious.

The Unexpected Reunion

A chance encounter that reignites past feelings and conflicts.

The initial chance encounter between Sasha and James at a club is a pivotal plot device. It immediately throws the protagonists back into each other's orbit, forcing them to confront their unresolved past and the lingering feelings they have for one another. This unexpected meeting serves as the catalyst for the entire story, shattering Sasha's attempts to move on and reigniting James's internal conflict. It creates instant dramatic tension and sets the stage for the subsequent confrontations and reconciliations that drive the narrative forward.

Internal Monologue

Characters' thoughts and feelings directly conveyed to the reader.

Both James and Sasha frequently engage in internal monologues, providing readers with direct access to their innermost thoughts, fears, and desires. This device is crucial for understanding the characters' complex motivations, especially James's reasons for his secrecy and Sasha's struggle between anger and love. It allows the reader to empathize with their individual pain and confusion, making their eventual reconciliation more impactful. The internal monologues reveal the depth of their feelings and the true nature of their conflict, going beyond their spoken words.

James Quotes

“I wanted to hate him, but I couldn’t. He was like a drug, and I was addicted.”
The protagonist's internal struggle with her feelings for James.
“Sometimes the most beautiful things are the most dangerous.”
A reflection on James's alluring yet potentially harmful nature.
“He wasn't just a bad boy; he was *my* bad boy.”
The protagonist's possessive and accepting view of James's character.
“Love isn't always pretty. Sometimes it's messy and complicated, but it's still love.”
A realization about the reality and challenges within their relationship.
“He might have been trouble, but he was worth every single minute of it.”
The protagonist's justification for the difficulties in her relationship with James.
“My heart had a mind of its own when it came to James.”
Describing the protagonist's lack of control over her emotions for him.
“We were a train wreck waiting to happen, but I didn't care. I wanted to ride it out with him.”
Acknowledging the volatile nature of their relationship but choosing to embrace it.
“He didn't just steal my heart; he kidnapped it and held it hostage.”
A vivid description of the intensity of her feelings for James.
“Some people come into your life and change everything. James was one of those people.”
Reflecting on the profound impact James had on her life.
“I knew he was broken, but I believed I could fix him. Or at least, help him heal.”
The protagonist's desire to help James overcome his past.
“His touch was fire, and I was more than willing to burn.”
Describing the physical and emotional intensity of their connection.
“We were two broken pieces that somehow fit together, making something whole.”
A metaphor for their complementary yet flawed relationship.
“He was my addiction, my downfall, and my salvation, all rolled into one.”
A complex view of James's multifaceted role in her life.
“No matter how many times I told myself to walk away, my feet always led me back to him.”
The protagonist's inability to resist James despite her better judgment.

Quiz

10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.

  1. Question 1

    Who is James Steele's girlfriend at the beginning of the story, before Sasha re-enters his life?

    1. Sasha Crawford
    2. Tatiana
    3. Maria
    4. Chloe
    Show answer

    B. Tatiana At the beginning of the story, James has moved on with Tatiana, a woman he works with, who understands his reasons for secrecy.

  2. Question 2

    What caused James to initially lose Sasha Crawford?

    1. He moved to a different city for work.
    2. His secrets made it hard to get close to people.
    3. Sasha found someone else.
    4. They had a major argument about their future.
    Show answer

    B. His secrets made it hard to get close to people. The synopsis states that James' secrets caused him to lose Sasha, indicating his complicated life and difficulty getting close to people were the root cause.

  3. Question 3

    How did Sasha react emotionally after seeing James in the arms of another woman?

    1. She was confused but understanding.
    2. She immediately confronted him.
    3. She was heartbroken and felt betrayed.
    4. She was indifferent and moved on quickly.
    Show answer

    C. She was heartbroken and felt betrayed. The text explicitly states Sasha was 'Heartbroken and betrayed' after witnessing James with another woman.

  4. Question 4

    What is Tatiana's understanding of James's situation?

    1. She is unaware of his past with Sasha.
    2. She is constantly questioning his secrecy.
    3. She understands his reasons for secrecy.
    4. She believes his secrets are a sign of distrust.
    Show answer

    C. She understands his reasons for secrecy. The synopsis mentions Tatiana as 'someone who understands his reasons for secrecy,' contrasting her with Sasha's previous experience.

  5. Question 5

    How did Sasha change her approach to romance after her heartbreak with James?

    1. She decided to avoid dating altogether.
    2. She became more cautious and sought long-term commitment.
    3. She started using dating and men as a way to get over the pain.
    4. She tried to win James back immediately.
    Show answer

    C. She started using dating and men as a way to get over the pain. After her heartbreak, Sasha 'now had a new take on romance, using dating and men as a way to get over the pain of losing James.'

  6. Question 6

    What dilemma does James face when Sasha re-enters his life?

    1. Whether to move to a new city or stay where he is.
    2. Whether to pursue a new career opportunity or maintain his current job.
    3. Whether to stay with Tatiana or provide explanations to Sasha to win her back.
    4. Whether to finally reveal his secrets to everyone or keep them hidden.
    Show answer

    C. Whether to stay with Tatiana or provide explanations to Sasha to win her back. The core conflict for James is whether to 'stay with Tatiana... Or step up with explanations for Sasha, the woman he can’t seem to stop wanting?'

  7. Question 7

    What is a central theme explored through James's character regarding his past relationships?

    1. The importance of financial stability in a relationship.
    2. The destructive impact of secrets and lack of openness on intimacy.
    3. The challenge of balancing work and personal life.
    4. The inevitability of growing apart from loved ones.
    Show answer

    B. The destructive impact of secrets and lack of openness on intimacy. James's 'secrets caused him to lose the woman of his dreams' and make it 'hard to get close to people,' highlighting the theme of secrets' impact on relationships.

  8. Question 8

    What does Sasha's initial description as a 'foolish romantic' imply about her character before her heartbreak?

    1. She was naive and idealistic about love.
    2. She was overly critical and cynical about relationships.
    3. She prioritized practical considerations over emotional connection.
    4. She was a skilled manipulator in her romantic pursuits.
    Show answer

    A. She was naive and idealistic about love. Being a 'foolish romantic' suggests she held an idealized, perhaps naive, view of love, which was shattered by James's betrayal.

  9. Question 9

    Which of the following describes the core emotional conflict Sasha faces upon James's return with a new woman?

    1. Whether to ignore him completely or offer him friendship.
    2. Whether to let go of her hurt/anger, demand answers, or fight to win him back.
    3. Whether to warn Tatiana about James's past or stay silent.
    4. Whether to move to a new city or remain in her current location.
    Show answer

    B. Whether to let go of her hurt/anger, demand answers, or fight to win him back. Sasha's internal conflict is explicitly stated: 'Will she let go of all the hurt and anger, and move on? Demand answers? Or lay her cards down, and fight to win back the man that was once her everything?'

  10. Question 10

    The description of James having 'a complicated life' and 'secrets' suggests a potential theme related to:

    1. The ease of finding love in modern society.
    2. The allure of mysterious individuals.
    3. The hidden burdens and past traumas that can affect present relationships.
    4. The importance of clear communication in business dealings.
    Show answer

    C. The hidden burdens and past traumas that can affect present relationships. The 'complicated life' and 'secrets' that make it hard for James to get close to people strongly imply underlying issues, likely past burdens or traumas, that impact his ability to form intimate connections.

James FAQ

What is the central conflict of 'James'?

The central conflict revolves around James Steele's struggle to choose between two women: Sasha Crawford, his past love whom he lost due to his secrets, and Tatiana, his current girlfriend who understands his need for secrecy. James must decide whether to reconcile with Sasha by revealing his truths or remain with Tatiana, who offers him stability and acceptance.

Who are the main characters in the book?

The main characters are James Steele, a man with a complicated life and secrets; Sasha Crawford, his former love interest who was heartbroken by his actions; and Tatiana, James's current girlfriend and colleague who accepts his secretive nature. Their intertwined relationships drive the narrative.

What caused the initial breakup between James and Sasha?

Their initial breakup occurred because Sasha witnessed James in the arms of another woman, leading her to believe he betrayed her. This public display, coupled with James's inability to explain his secrets, shattered Sasha's romantic ideals and left her heartbroken.

How has Sasha changed since her breakup with James?

Sasha has become jaded about romance, using dating and men as a coping mechanism to overcome the pain of losing James. She is no longer the 'foolish romantic' she once was, now approaching relationships with a more cynical and guarded perspective.

What makes Tatiana different from Sasha in James's life?

Tatiana understands and accepts James's reasons for secrecy, offering him a sense of stability and companionship without demanding explanations. In contrast, Sasha was hurt by his secrets and the lack of transparency, representing a love that required James to be more open.

Are James's secrets ever fully revealed, and what impact do they have?

The book heavily implies that James's secrets are significant enough to complicate his relationships and cause him to lose Sasha. Their full revelation is crucial for James to potentially win Sasha back, as they are the root cause of her initial heartbreak and distrust.

Is there any indication of who the 'other woman' Sasha saw James with might have been, and why?

The synopsis doesn't explicitly state who the 'other woman' was or the context of that encounter. It's likely a pivotal moment that, when explained, could shed light on James's secrets and potentially mitigate Sasha's initial pain, revealing a misunderstanding or a deeper, more complicated obligation.

Does Tatiana have her own secrets or motivations for understanding James's secrecy?

The synopsis suggests Tatiana 'understands his reasons for secrecy,' which could imply she either shares a similar background or has her own past that makes her empathetic. This shared understanding might be a subtle connection that initially drew James to her, contrasting with Sasha's demand for transparency.

How does James's internal conflict between Sasha and Tatiana reflect his deeper desires?

James's struggle reflects a conflict between the comfort of understanding (Tatiana) and the passionate, undeniable pull of past love (Sasha). It suggests he yearns for both acceptance and a love that, despite its pain, was once his 'everything,' forcing him to confront what he truly values in a partner.

What psychological impact did the breakup have on Sasha beyond her jaded view of romance?

Beyond her jaded view, Sasha's use of dating and men as a coping mechanism indicates a deeper wound and a possible avoidance of genuine emotional connection. She might be struggling with trust issues and a fear of vulnerability, actively seeking superficial relationships to protect herself from further heartbreak.

How does James's reluctance to share his secrets impact his self-perception and ability to form deep connections?

James's reluctance likely stems from a fear of judgment or potential consequences, causing him to isolate himself emotionally and hindering his ability to form truly deep, trusting connections. This self-imposed barrier could lead to feelings of loneliness and guilt, despite having Tatiana's understanding.

Is Sasha's 'foolish romantic' past a strength or a weakness when she encounters James again?

It's both. Her past romanticism made her vulnerable to heartbreak, but it also suggests a capacity for deep love and commitment. If she can channel that idealism with a new understanding of trust and communication, it could become a strength in fighting for James, rather than a weakness leading to disillusionment.

Is James's love for Tatiana genuine, or is she primarily a rebound/comfort after losing Sasha?

The synopsis states James 'has grown to care for' Tatiana and she 'understands his reasons for secrecy,' suggesting a genuine connection built on shared understanding and comfort. However, the immediate mention of Sasha's return making him choose implies his feelings for Tatiana might not be as deep or passionate as his lingering desire for Sasha.

What does Sasha's internal debate — 'let go, demand answers, or fight' — reveal about her character arc?

This debate highlights Sasha's growth from passive heartbreak to active agency. 'Let go' shows maturity, 'demand answers' shows a need for closure and truth, and 'fight' shows a rekindled passion and determination. Her eventual choice will define whether she reclaims her past or truly moves forward.

Could James's 'complicated life' and 'secrets' be related to something morally ambiguous, or simply a difficult personal situation?

The phrasing 'complicated life' and 'secrets' could encompass a wide range, from morally ambiguous actions to a difficult family situation, a dangerous profession, or even a past trauma. The ambiguity allows readers to speculate on the severity and nature of these secrets, which will heavily influence his redemption arc.

Is it possible for James to have a truly happy ending without fully revealing his secrets, even to Tatiana?

It's unlikely for a truly 'happy' and fulfilling ending, especially with Sasha, if James doesn't fully reveal his secrets. While Tatiana might tolerate his secrecy, true intimacy and trust, particularly in a romance novel, often require complete honesty. Without it, lingering doubts and unresolved issues would likely persist, preventing genuine happiness.

What role does forgiveness play in the potential reconciliation between James and Sasha?

Forgiveness is absolutely central. Sasha needs to forgive James for the heartbreak and perceived betrayal, but James also needs to forgive himself for his past actions and for keeping secrets. Without mutual forgiveness and understanding, their past pain will continue to overshadow any attempt at a renewed relationship.

About the author

Chantal Fernando

Chantal Fernando is a contemporary romance author known for her steamy and emotional stories. Her debut novel, 'James,' quickly gained popularity within the genre, captivating readers with its compelling characters and fast-paced plot. Fernando's writing style is characterized by its raw honesty and exploration of complex relationships, making her a notable voice in modern romance fiction.

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