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The Mask #1

The Billionaire's Mask

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“I am a monster, Miss Hart. You wouldn’t want nor wish to see me...”

He is mysterious and brilliant, wealthy and prominent, but no single soul has seen him in person. Well, no one should see him—that's one of his many rules. No one can touch him either; that's also another rule.

Except for me because I have broken every rule.

Now I'm extremely drawn to him. His peculiarity is out of this world, and his beauty is beyond physical.
But the Master has demons of his own and is being chased by his brutal past. Suddenly, we've become the reflection of each other's nightmares. I realize that the Master and I are not so different.

Is this newly found bond just another uncertain fate that could deepen our wounds, or is it finally going to be our redemption?

270 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 22, 2021

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About the author

Margarette Grey

10 books69 followers
Margarette Grey writes contemporary romance stories featuring hot billionaires and witty heroines. She loves the thrill of reading gripping romance novels at night, kissing alpha males in her dreams, and writing about them in the morning. She makes her home in The Pearl of the Orient Seas, where ‘leisure time’ means indulging in drawings, watching anime, Korean dramas, and Netflix series.

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5 stars
49 (43%)
4 stars
29 (25%)
3 stars
18 (15%)
2 stars
9 (7%)
1 star
8 (7%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 20, 2021
The Billionaire's Mask
" 𝐼'𝓋𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝑒𝓃 𝒹𝑒𝒶𝒹 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝓈𝑜 𝓁𝑜𝓃𝑔. 𝐵𝓊𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝓂𝑒 𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁 𝒶𝓁𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝒶𝑔𝒶𝒾𝓃…"
GUYSS I FINISHED THIS STORY IN ONEE DAY, I JUST COULDN’T STOP READING.
The Billionaire's Mask by Margarette Grey is completely intriguing, exciting, and mysterious.
As a start, I loved the description used throughout the book. Especially the characters, the plot and the scenes between Brandon and Alayna. Literary I felt hungry when I was reading the dishes Alayna prepared for her Master:) I loved the slow burn that grows with each chapter. Since you can't figure out what is going on until you keep on reading and get shocked at each turn that events take. I have to admit that I went through an emotional rollercoaster. One moment I was laughing and the other confused then I felt my heart ache for all the complications that Alayna and Brandon faced. I really loved the chemistry between the main characters and how faithful Alayna was even with the circumstances given. Furthermore, I really loved the support Alayna gave Brandon and that she loved him unconditionally dealing with his insecurities, moodiness , darkness and pushed him to open up for the world again to face the tragedy he went through. Likewise , Brandon was so gentle and caring when Alayna decided to tell him about her past. However, I advise you that while reading don’t judge the characters because at the end everything will become clear and that is another thing I admired about Margarette. You will recognize that every hint and event has an intention that will take you off guard. By the way, I can't wait for book two to be released for, I truly got shocked at the end.
Finally , if you love revenge, shocking endings and complicated love stories I highly recommend you read this thrilling, amazing story.
Margarette Grey
Profile Image for Esmiralda.
157 reviews26 followers
May 3, 2021
4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you Netgalley and publisher for the e-arc for an honest opinion.

Please take in mind it’s my opinion, and everyone is allowed to have one.

This book kind of reminded me of a beauty and the beast retelling, but with such great twists. This was such an interesting, fascinating and sad book, also such a well written story. I immediately got pulled in the story.

I loved the characters, they were so fun also felt so real.

I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen next, very interested to know.
Profile Image for Georgia.
15 reviews
April 22, 2021
Amazing!

This book was written beautifully! It has suspense and you're interest isn't lost because of the mysterious mood in the book. You want to keep reading to find out more about Brandon's family and the event that made him the faceless billionaire that he is now.
In terms of the characters, I would say that all the characters are compelling. First with the Katrakis family, Oliver is sweet and a gentleman. Cassius is witty and likeable. Brandon is alluring and seductive. For the protagonist, Alayna, I think the nature of her character is someone that everyone can enjoy and she's not unreasonable either. An added note would also be that this story isn't overly erotic/sexual. I find too often that many authors create very shallow relationships with no real depth and the gaps are largely filled in with those lust-filled sex scenes. However, with this story, you're actually reading a story that isn't just sex (something that I love)! For some, you might find this story lacking sex, but the sensual aura is enough and again, the plot is so interesting that I didn't even notice the lack of sex scenes because the author has grabbed your interest through the plot itself. The plot overall is grappling and the whole system in which the Katrakis and the other families operate is very unique and this is the first time I've seen such detail and complexity with familial systems in a story. The number of secrets you'll uncover is just fascinating and keeps you tensed as you wait to see how such webs can possibly be detangled.

My criticisms with the book would simply be one thing; the first being the constant secrets. It's both interesting but can be repetitive and frustrating at times. It's just one of those tropes of "telling them will hurt them even though hiding it is worse".

One thing I would advise to those interested is that this story doesn't end with a HEA or complete conclusion, rather it ends in the middle of the story and you won't have all your questions answered in the first book. So, if you are looking for a single story that is a HEA story then you would have to read the second story (again, this is a series, and 'The Mask' series isn't a standalone series so you should keep that in mind!).

Overall, I definitely recommend reading this story and the rest of the series too!

*This book was given to me as an ARC copy but I'm voluntarily writing a review
Profile Image for Terri Zumbrook.
2,391 reviews12 followers
April 16, 2021
I grew up reading Gothic romances and the atmosphere and plot of THE BILLIONAIRE’S MASK had me under its spell from the first page. The type of language used set the tone for a mysterious, troubled, sequestered master of the mansion, and the light and life that came through with the young woman he hired to be his personal chef.

We know the mask stems from tragic circumstances that left the Master with physical and mental scars. The novel is in part about his healing, but also uncovering the source of the tragedy. Alayna becomes the first person outside of his cousins that Master Brandon permits to see him.

The author built the suspense with the mystery of the source of Brandon’s pain. She fuels a slow burning passion between Brandon and Alayna that steals your breath, then breaks your heart. The cliffhanger ending is quite compelling and I hope the next book is out very soon.

I received an advance copy of this book. This is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Clary.
277 reviews17 followers
April 20, 2021
This story was a perfect combination of Beauty and the Beast and The Phantom of the Opera for me. I did not expect to be so involved in this story, but the world is full of wonderful surprises, I suppose.

I loved that the characters had insecurities and that they were shown in an emotional way. Plus, the book portraits the power of true love, that kind of love that makes you face your fears and overcome them. The story was full of drama and it kept me interested, making me turn one page after another.

Overall, it was a book that left me wanting more. I hope the sequel gets out soon!
Profile Image for Emily Morgan.
14 reviews
April 12, 2021
The Billionaire’s Mask is a beautiful tragedy!

Brandon is the perfect mix of Christian Grey and the Phantom of the Opera. As a billionaire who covers his physical scars from even himself, he hides from more than just his past, but the people who love him the most. After spending years refusing to heal from his traumatic past, he finally finds a ray of hope when Alayna is dropped into his life.

I loved the dark tones of Brandon using love as an inspiration to begin to face his fears. His internal battle is raw and real, showing readers that scars are more than just skin deep.

Alayna and Brandon’s story is filled with dark romance, intrigue and vibrant tension that keeps you turning the pages.

I was truly captivated, and can’t wait for the next book!
4 reviews1 follower
April 15, 2021
I had initially read this book on Radish and I have to say I’m ecstatic this talented writer has published!
I give this book the highest rating possible for two reasons: 1. From the very first page right until the last page the reader is made to feel part of Alayna and Brandon’s world- the writer transports you completely which I think is essential for any great book.
2. The overall plot of the book, from their present circumstances to Alayna and Brandon’s past, to their healing and connection through human nature, is so real and raw that one can’t help but sympathise and follow the journey in hopes for better futures for both characters.
2,495 reviews20 followers
April 15, 2021
4.5*
Alayna is hired to cook for the mystery Billionaire Brandon.
Brandon has been hiding from the world for over 10 years only trusting his cousin Oliver to see him.
When the new chef takes it upon herself to break some rules the two come to a compromise.
I loved the character of Alayna wanting to care for those she is close to. Brandon character is more complex and I'm hoping the next book answers more questions.
A new author for myself and I looking forward to reading more in the series.
April 20, 2021
I am _head over heels_ in love with this book. It's real, yet surreal. Margarette created this incredible universe that's so original and... wonderful.
This is not just another typical romance book you'll find on a book shelve in a bookstore or library. This is a whole new world awaiting you_ a world you've never explored before, a dream-and-wakeup world and a world you just won't get enough of. Be warned...

As I've said before, this is one 'different' piece of art; once you're in, you're hooked_ you won't be disappointed! Margarette is one hell of an author_ an excellent one (in case you were wondering).

This is a voluntary review.
January 28, 2021
Absolutely love this book!! The best I have read in a long time. Sad,beautiful and romantic. I love the leading character Brandon And his new found happiness.

I am grateful for every single tear, laughter,smile and heartache this book brought on ✨

I’ll highly recommend everyone to read this book. It keeps getting interesting every chapters as you read. I have read the 2 book series of the billionaire mask’s and billionaire revenge’s... I can’t wait for the 3rd book to be out!! That’s how much this book has made me fall in love with the characters and the storyline ♥️♥️

I would give a 10/10 🤩
Profile Image for Isha Bookreviewer.
43 reviews7 followers
April 22, 2021
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Reading Pace : Fast

This is my first book by Margarette Grey and I loved the story line ..it's very different and unique and interesting. It kept me on my seat from beginning to end. Plus, the title of the book 100% suits it. There are twists and turns , that keeps you turning pages.

Story is awesome but this isn't the writing style I prefer but past that I totally loved it. The characters and side characters.

𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔:

𝑩𝒓𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒐𝒏 is mysterious, attractive, self-made billionaire and he never meets anyone. I Loved his character very much.

𝑯𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒂𝒓 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒏𝒐𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒍 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒊𝒔 𝒎𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒚.

𝑨𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒏𝒂 is sweet and beautiful, friendly, innocent , good hearted and dedicated to her family and work.


𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒖𝒎𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒚: She has been hired as a cook in Brendon's mansion where there are strict rules. Some of them she has broken.
Story takes a turn when she has been told the real reason to be hired. And, there starts the main story.
I love chemistry between them and side characters as well.

I wanted to rate this book somewhere between 3 and 4 but I go for 4.


���𝑹𝑪 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒊𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘.
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝑵𝒆𝒕𝒈𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒚 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝑹𝑪.

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This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Maria.
186 reviews3 followers
April 20, 2021
I was given an ARC to review the book an give an honest opinion.
I really enjoyed the plot of the story, I thought it was unique and interesting. There is vendetta, revenge and a bit of action going on.
Both characters are suffering from their own traumas and demons, which is something that brought them together.
I just wanted them to connect more and their relationship felt a little rushed and forced, the connection wasn't there for me as much. They did have great sexual chemistry in my opinion, which saved a lot of the story for me.
I would definitely read the second book to see what will happen next! I rated this one 3.5.
11 reviews
April 21, 2021
A Modern Retelling of Beauty and The Beast.

Where Brandon hides behind the doors of his room because of a tragedy that happened years ago... it started with a couple of sticky notes, but he finally opened up to Alayna, his beauty. The story explores the growth a man hidden in the shadows and a girl who helps him realize that he is more than his looks. While the end of the first book isn't what you expect, it keeps you on edge as to what happens in the second book. I am soo excited and pumped for the next installation of the series!


*Voluntary Review
Profile Image for Anna Theurer (Anna's Bookshelf).
728 reviews54 followers
April 21, 2021
This is my first book by this author and I have to say that I am very impressed with her brilliant way of weaving together a story that is enticing, intriguing, and captivating. This book was not what I expected. I mean that in a good way because the story is original and not your stereotypical billionaire romance. Brandon is a fascinating hero and the author did an excellent job with his character development. Alayna is a very likable heroine and I enjoyed seeing the affect that she had on Brandon. A love like theirs will never be easy and witnessing how their relationship evolved was entertaining.

I wasn’t sure where the author was going to lead the reader and as the story progressed, it became even more riveting. The book started off a little slow for me but then the pace quickly picked up during the second half of the book. I found this novel to be a compelling and tantalizing read full of mystery, intrigue, and suspense. I enjoyed the complex characters and unique storyline and I cannot wait to see what will happen next!

I voluntarily read an early version of this book. All thoughts and opinion are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Vanessa (bookfairy95).
937 reviews126 followers
May 5, 2021
3.5 Stars

This book was a little up and down for me, but all in all I enjoyed it!🙌🏻

Now, this book started off really interesting and mysterious. You get thrust into the story without knowing anything, which is very like how Alayna probably felt in the start, because she agrees to this new job with a boss she won't see OR communicate with and moves into this huge mansion to become the private chef of said boss. Very mysterious indeed, because she's immediately told by the housekeeper that certain areas are off limits etc.

The book has a very heavy #BeautyAndTheBeast feeling and it certainly starts off as a great #retelling , because the "Master" of the house is a very growly person that doesn't want to be seen and that doesn't leave the house. Slowly Alayna gets more info though and I was really intruiged!

The middle part was a little rushed in my opinion though. What started off as slow burn all of a sudden developed into something much more #fastpaced with big feelings being declared and it almost had an #instalove feeling to it. Which isn't necessarily a bad thing, however, sometimes I felt a little left behind. I guess it was too fast for me at times.😂
Towards the last third of the book things turn even more heated, there were time lapses, the story made a big jump of one year (I need to point out that this one was definitely necessary though!!!) and things... changed. There were great character changes, because obviously a year had passed. Will it did make me a little frustrated with some characters, I did also feel very intruiged though. It was clear that there were things left unsaid for a reason. It added to the mystery of the story.

The book ended on a cliffhanger and it left A LOT of things open. There are so many things I need answers for. And not only things that happened within that 1 year time frame that changed the characters, but also things from the past. Not only the obvious family incident, but also something about our main character Alayna that was hinted at, but wasn't talked about yet. I think there are a lot of things left unsaid that really need to be addressed in the sequel and I am positive that these things will clear up the confusion I felt in certain points. But also, technically the story could go in 2 very different directions from here, so this is another point that really intruiges me.

To sum this up: Yes, there was confusion on my part. I felt like the book should have been a little longer to give the characters more time in the middle part, especially when it comes to the development of feelings. It should have been a bit more flashed out. However, the book also managed to really intruige me and I am very curious to see where the story will go from here, so the author definitely did that job right!
I will give it 3.5 stars, because of my issues with the middle part, I do think though that there is potential for 4 stars if the "missing links" will be addressed in book 2!❤
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,763 reviews16 followers
April 21, 2021
The Billionaire's Mask by Margarette Grey is the First book in the Mask Series. This starts the story of Alayna and Brandon so you will be continuing their story into the next book. Alayna has taken a job as a chef for a reclusive Brandon who only interacts with his cousin. Alayna isn't one to stick to the rules that Brandon has put in place which start to cause their interactions. This book did remind me of a Beauty and the Beast type theme. I can't wait for more to come.
3,802 reviews
April 22, 2021
This new to me author made me do a lot of feeling!

Brandon's fate can be looked at as a problem many folks have in their life. A "deformity" that causes them to be closed, have very few friends, loneliness!

Alayna, thank you for breaking down some of Brandon's walls!

Looking forward to reading more by this author!
Profile Image for Sissy's Romance Book Review .
8,763 reviews16 followers
April 21, 2021
The Billionaire's Mask by Margarette Grey is the First book in the Mask Series. This starts the story of Alayna and Brandon so you will be continuing their story into the next book. Alayna has taken a job as a chef for a reclusive Brandon who only interacts with his cousin. Alayna isn't one to stick to the rules that Brandon has put in place which start to cause their interactions. This book did remind me of a Beauty and the Beast type theme. I can't wait for more to come.
Profile Image for Ashley E.
219 reviews4 followers
April 18, 2021
This book starts with Alayna taking a position as assistant chef to a mysterious billionaire in his estate so she can help provide medical care for her mother and 12 adoptive siblings. Upon research on her new employer, she is unable to find anything on him despite owning a massive company. It seems no one has ever seen him in person. ... Seems intriguing, right?

Maybe it’s just me but this book reads like Beauty and the Beast fan fiction. (And I made that assessment long before the actual reference to the story/movie in the book) The story line in the beginning follows the Disney fairy tale very closely.

There was a lot going on in this book. Some of it kept me wondering about the outcome, some was a little hard to follow. The premise was good but the dialogue seemed awkward at times.

This was book one and ends on a cliffhanger.
1 review
April 22, 2021
This book is an absolute beauty. The plot is extremely well thought out and honestly I can't wait for the second book of this series. I absolutely loved reading this book and I can't wait to read whatever comes next between Brandon and Alaina. I love the romantic aspect of this book as well. It shows how much the two characters are willing to do for each other and I absolutely love Cassius and Oliver as well. They're everything needed in a true friend who's got your back and would do anything for you. I would seriously recommend reading this book. It's one of a kind.
Profile Image for Heidi Watson.
81 reviews4 followers
April 22, 2021
Absolutely loved this book! Kinda had a phantom of the opera vibe with Brandon covering up his scars. There was mystery, suspense, angst, and love. My heart broke for Alayna at a point in the story. I wanted to shake Brandon! But all in all I enjoyed the book!
Profile Image for Alharaca.
804 reviews6 followers
April 22, 2021
Loved it. It has a fresh new feel. It would have you wondering everything throughout the whole book. The story is amazing and the characters gives to it something special and additional. Prepare for being intrigued from the beginning and to now each characters ways. Definitely a must and I can't wait for the next one.
1 review
April 23, 2021
This book has succeeded in keeping me on edge all the time. It has a perfect blend of mystery and romance. The book's sensual aura made me addicted to it. I recommend this to anyone who loves reading gothic romance.
I rate this book a ten out of ten.

I received the ARC copy but I am voluntarily writing this review.
Profile Image for Nagma (Take A Look At My Bookshelf).
1,343 reviews90 followers
April 23, 2021
The Billionaire’s Mask by Margarette Grey is the first book in the Mask series and it is a contemporary romantic suspense novel. The Billionaire’s Mask starts off with Alayna having been hired as the assistant turned private chef for a mysteriously reclusive and secretive billionaire, the Master. No one has seen this self-made billionaire even though he owns and runs a multi-billion dollar company.

The cover and blurb of this book had me intrigued, and I had high hopes. Unfortunately, this book did not meet my expectations. The underlying plot of a reclusive billionaire with secrets is pretty good and there was some suspense and mystery present in the book, but there were way too many things going on. For example, there’s a chairman of a multi-billion dollar company who basically runs said company, but he is also that company’s CEO’s (the Master’s) private chef. This seemed like a bit of a stretch and quite unrealistic.

The transitions between some scenes were not at all smooth. There were many “incomplete” scenes, and it felt like the author strung together a bunch of scenes to make a chapter work without considering how it would read. I was also often left confused by timeline shifts that didn’t quite make sense. This made the book feel choppy. I felt like there was too much detail in some parts and not enough in other parts.

This was Alayna and the Master, Brandon’s, love story, but I did not feel that these characters were at all compatible. There only seemed to be physical attraction and no chemistry between the characters. This book ends in a cliffhanger and I’m assuming the other books in the series will give more clarity into Alayna and Brandon’s story. I’m not sure whether I’ll be reading more books in this series. I may have to wait until the blurb to see if it piques my interest.

Rating: 2.5 (rounded up to 3)
Profile Image for Namrata Ganti.
464 reviews45 followers
April 24, 2021
The first time I came across this book was on Wattpad. While scrolling for new books to read, I came upon this title and something about it and the cover grabbed my attention. I devoured the book in one night and thoroughly enjoyed myself. The moment I found out that this book is due for release, I jumped at the chance to talk about it!

This story follows Alayna as she takes up a job in the house of Brandon Lucien, mainly referred to as "the Master". There are rules to be followed in the house, but as we discover, the phrase "rules are meant to be broken" speaks true. The author brings to us amazingly well developed characters with depth and pasts full of secrets. As we discover each one, we are exposed to trauma, hurt, loss and so much love.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and fell in love with the characters as much as I did the story. Brandon is your typical brooding man with a hidden past and the fact that he himself stays hidden from the world adds to the mystery. He allows only two people to meet him or be around him, that is until Alayna turns up. Slowly she begins to break down his walls and bring light into his dark life.

This story reminded me of The Beauty and The Beast, but had it's own unique spin to it. The author has done a wonderful job with this book ensuring that the readers are hooked until the very end. Honestly? I am excited and cannot wait to read the next books and to follow our beloved characters further!
Profile Image for Katrina.
812 reviews13 followers
April 24, 2021
Alayna lands a job as a chef to the elusive and mysterious billionaire Brandon. For weeks she works without meeting her boss, as he spends all his time in his room and shuns himself away from anyone. Once they do meet, They grow close but Brandon’s fear of being touched and being seen puts a strain on their relationship. Brandon wears a mask that covers half his face and over time, it is revealed what tragic circumstances caused his condition. The billionaire’s Mask is an exceptional book and the character development and intense plot makes it a very worthy read. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing what happens next.
Profile Image for Karen.
477 reviews6 followers
April 20, 2021
1st Reading: 19th-20th April 2021
Rating: 1 out of 5 (DNF at 63%)

Disclaimer: I received this book from Netgalley + in exchange for an honest opinion. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!

It's just straightly a disaster! Both the MCs are so so annoying and I'm done with them!
I, unfortunately, did not enjoy this book and found myself struggling to get through it. This book is complicated and I don't know what to say. The characters, the plot, the relationship with each other are forced and I just don't get
Author 3 books91 followers
May 8, 2021
Captivating, enthralling, mysterious, sexy, delicious food... everything you want in a book!

Talk about amazing! I can't say enough about this truly fantastic read. I was blown away by the characters, setting, the wonderful brothers/family dynamic, mysterious mansion/ the staff and so much more!

I love Brandon, Oliver and Cassius! Each brother is amazing and can see why they are so in love with Alayna! I love her and her ability to do what she wants in a sense and brings Brandon to his knees!

I can't wait to read book 2. That ending..... I need more, stat!!!!!!

This book had a Beauty and The Beast feel to it and I just can't stress enough how much I loved this setting, dialogue and everything in between!!!


5 stars from me.

*Recv'd an arc in exchange for an honest review*

Profile Image for Jeannette dods.
112 reviews4 followers
April 24, 2021
A modern day Beauty and the Beast. Alayna is hired as a cook for a mysterious billionaire. Brandon is hiding from the world. Together they make a remarkable pair. The chemistry and intrigue described by Margarette is amazing. A mysterious read that you will love.
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