With over 225 novels to her name, diving into the world of Nora Roberts can feel like stepping into a labyrinth of interconnected families, futuristic mysteries, and magical trilogies. Her genius lies not just in standalone stories but in crafting vast universes where characters and plotlines intertwine, making the reading order essential for the full, immersive experience. Whether you are a new fan wondering where to start or a seasoned reader looking to tackle a new saga, understanding the correct sequence is the key to unlocking the depth of her storytelling. This guide is designed to be your definitive roadmap, breaking down the most iconic Nora Roberts book series in order.
We provide clear, chronological, and publication-date reading paths so you can spend less time guessing and more time lost in her captivating narratives. From the sprawling, 50-plus book 'In Death' series written under her J.D. Robb pseudonym to her enchanting paranormal trilogies and multigenerational family dramas, we'll ensure you never miss a crucial character introduction or a critical plot development. This comprehensive list offers a structured approach to her most beloved series, allowing you to seamlessly follow the intricate tapestry she has so masterfully woven. For readers dedicated to getting it right, organized lists are invaluable, simplifying your reading journey and maximizing your enjoyment of these incredible sagas.
1. In Death Series (Eve Dallas) - Publication Order Guide
As Nora Roberts's longest-running and most ambitious project, the In Death series, penned under the pseudonym J.D. Robb, is a monumental work of romantic suspense. Set in a meticulously crafted mid-21st-century New York, the series follows the tough, brilliant homicide detective Eve Dallas and her enigmatic billionaire husband, Roarke. This series is the ultimate argument for following publication order, as each installment is a tightly woven thread in a larger tapestry of character development and world-building.
Starting with Naked in Death (1995), the series introduces Eve and Roarke, whose relationship evolves from a place of intense suspicion to a deep, unshakeable partnership over the course of more than fifty novels. The procedural crime plots are thrilling, but the real magic lies in the slow-burn development of the central romance and the ever-expanding ensemble cast.
Reading Tips for the In Death Series
To properly experience one of the best Nora Roberts book series in order, strictly adhering to the publication sequence is essential. Skipping books means missing crucial moments that shape the characters' lives.
Action Step: Begin with Naked in Death. This first book establishes the foundational dynamics of Eve and Roarke's relationship and introduces the futuristic setting.
Insider Insight: Don't overlook the novellas. Often published in anthologies like Remember When or The Lost, these shorter stories fill important narrative gaps and should be read in their chronological place.
Reading Strategy: With over 50 novels and numerous novellas, tracking your progress is key. Use a checklist or a digital tool like Goodreads to mark off each title as you complete it. For a deeper understanding of reading order methodologies, you can explore the differences between complete vs. publication order.
Pro Tip: Resist the urge to skip any entry. Even if a particular mystery doesn't grab you, the character interactions within that book are vital to the overarching series narrative and emotional arcs.
2. Bride Series (Including In the Garden) - Contemporary Romance Order
Nora Roberts excels at creating interconnected worlds, and the Bride Quartet and In the Garden trilogies are a perfect example of her mastery. While technically two separate series, they are set in the same universe and feature overlapping characters, making their reading order crucial for the full experience. The Bride Quartet centers on four childhood friends who run a successful wedding planning company, while the In the Garden trilogy focuses on the lives and loves of the three women running a historic nursery.
The two series are linked through shared relationships and settings, primarily in suburban Connecticut. Characters from the In the Garden books, like Roz Harper, make appearances in the Bride Quartet novels, enriching the background and giving longtime readers a sense of a living, breathing community. Understanding this connection is key to appreciating the depth of character development that is a hallmark of the best Nora Roberts book series in order.
Reading Tips for the Bride and In the Garden Series
To fully appreciate the intertwined narratives and character arcs, it is highly recommended to read these two trilogies in their publication sequence. This approach ensures character introductions and plot developments unfold as intended.
Action Step: Begin with the In the Garden trilogy, starting with Blue Dahlia (2004), followed by Black Rose (2005) and Red Lily (2005). Then, move on to the Bride Quartet, which starts with Vision in White (2009).
Insider Insight: Pay close attention to secondary characters, especially those who cross over between the series. Roz, a central figure in the Garden trilogy, plays a meaningful supporting role in the Bride Quartet, and reading her story first provides a much richer context for her actions.
Reading Strategy: Think of these as two parts of a larger saga. While each trilogy stands on its own, reading them together transforms the experience from enjoying individual romances to immersing yourself in a vibrant, interconnected community. The shared world-building is reminiscent of other popular romance series, a concept you can explore further by learning about the Fool's Gold series by Susan Mallery.
Pro Tip: Create a simple character map as you read. Jotting down the names of the main couples (like Roz & Harper, Stella & Logan) and how they connect to the Vows wedding planners (Mackensie, Emma, Laurel, and Parker) can help you keep track of the intricate web of relationships.
3. Sign of Seven Series - Paranormal/Urban Fantasy Order
The Sign of Seven Trilogy is a masterful blend of paranormal romance and horror, showcasing Nora Roberts's incredible versatility. The series centers on three boys born on the same day in Hawkins Hollow who unwittingly release an ancient evil. As adults, they must reunite every seven years to battle the demonic force that threatens to consume their town, a fight that culminates on their 21st birthday. Reading this paranormal Nora Roberts book series in order is non-negotiable, as it’s a single, continuous story told across three interconnected novels.
Starting with Blood Brothers (2007), the trilogy introduces the core characters: Cal, Gage, and Fox. Each book focuses on one of the men and his romantic partner as they uncover more about the demonic entity and their roles in the prophesied final battle. The paranormal mystery and world-building are meticulously layered, with each installment building directly upon the last, making publication order the only way to experience the escalating suspense and ultimate resolution.
Reading Tips for the Sign of Seven Series
To fully appreciate the chilling atmosphere and intricate plot of this trilogy, you must follow the intended sequence. The narrative is designed as one complete arc, and reading out of order would spoil major plot developments and dilute the building tension.
Action Step: Begin with Blood Brothers. This book establishes the entire premise, introduces the main characters, and lays the groundwork for the paranormal conflict that defines the series.
Insider Insight: Pay close attention to the historical flashbacks and prophetic visions scattered throughout the first book. These details are not just for atmosphere; they are crucial puzzle pieces that gain significance in The Hollow and The Pagan Stone.
Reading Strategy: Treat the trilogy as a single, three-part novel. The ending of one book leads directly into the beginning of the next, so plan to read them consecutively to maintain momentum and keep the complex lore fresh in your mind. This series is a great example of the storytelling found in the best urban fantasy book series.
Pro Tip: This series is darker and more horror-centric than much of Roberts's other work. Embrace the genre shift and allow yourself to get immersed in the genuinely creepy and high-stakes supernatural battle. The payoff is incredibly satisfying.
4. Celtic Trilogy - Historical Fantasy Order
Nora Roberts ventures into the enchanting realm of historical fantasy with the Celtic Trilogy, a captivating series that seamlessly blends contemporary romance with rich Celtic mythology and time-travel elements. The trilogy introduces three modern women who find love and uncover ancient destinies tied to a trio of immortal princes cursed centuries ago. This series showcases Roberts's versatility, proving her mastery extends beyond suspense and into the magical landscapes of Ireland.
Starting with Jewels of the Sun (1999), the series establishes its unique formula. Each book focuses on one couple while advancing the overarching quest to break the ancient curse. The magic lies in how the present-day romances are deeply intertwined with the historical and mythological threads, creating a story that feels both timeless and immediate. Following the publication order is key to appreciating the layered narrative and the building sense of camaraderie and magical stakes.
Reading Tips for the Celtic Trilogy
To fully appreciate the magical system and the interconnected fates of the characters, reading this Nora Roberts book series in order is highly recommended. Each story builds upon the lore and character relationships established in the previous one.
Action Step: Begin with Jewels of the Sun. This first installment introduces the setting of Ardmore, the central magical conflict, and the first of the three heroines, laying the essential groundwork for the entire trilogy.
Insider Insight: While each book features a self-contained romance, the central plot concerning the curse of the Fae prince is sequential. The solution to the curse is unveiled piece by piece, making the publication order the only one that makes narrative sense.
Reading Strategy: Keep a small note of the key mythological figures and historical connections mentioned in each book. This will help you track the overarching fantasy plot as it develops and connects the three modern-day storylines.
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the descriptions of the Irish setting and the integration of folklore. The atmosphere is a character in itself and understanding the magical elements is crucial to enjoying the resolution in the final book, Heart of the Sea.
5. Chesapeake Bay Saga - Multigenerational Contemporary Romance Order
The Chesapeake Bay Saga is a powerful exploration of family, trauma, and redemption, showcasing Nora Roberts's mastery of contemporary romance with deep emotional cores. This four-book series centers on the Quinn brothers, three men adopted by Ray and Stella Quinn after enduring abusive childhoods. After their adoptive father's death, they must come together to fulfill his final wish and, in doing so, confront their pasts and find love.
Starting with Sea Swept (1998), the saga introduces the complex dynamics of the Quinn family and their boat-building business on the Maryland shore. The series is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling, where each book builds upon the last, deepening the reader's understanding of the brothers' bonds and the multigenerational impact of their shared history. Following the publication order is critical to appreciate the evolving family relationships and the healing journey of each protagonist.
Reading Tips for the Chesapeake Bay Saga
To fully grasp the intricate family connections and character arcs, reading this Nora Roberts book series in order is non-negotiable. The emotional weight of each subsequent story depends on the foundation laid in the previous books.
Action Step: Begin with Sea Swept. This book establishes the core conflict and introduces Cameron, the first Quinn brother, while laying the groundwork for the entire family's journey.
Insider Insight: Pay close attention to the development of the Quinn boat-building business. It serves as a central metaphor for the family itself, being rebuilt and strengthened through dedication and hard work.
Reading Strategy: Consider creating a simple family tree as you read. Tracking the relationships between the Quinn brothers, their love interests, and the introduction of Seth will help clarify the complex family web. To better understand why this matters, you can explore the principles of a chronological reading order.
Pro Tip: The fourth book, Chesapeake Blue, was written several years after the original trilogy and focuses on the now-adult Seth Quinn. Reading it in its published place provides a powerful and satisfying conclusion to the generational saga.
6. Gallagher's of Ardmore - Irish Contemporary Romance Order
Transporting readers to the misty shores of Ireland, the Gallagher's of Ardmore trilogy is a quintessential Nora Roberts exploration of family, love, and the magic of the Emerald Isle. This series is a perfect entry point into Roberts's Irish-themed romances, centering on the three Gallagher siblings who run the local pub in the village of Ardmore. Each book focuses on one sibling finding love, all while weaving a rich narrative about community and heritage.
The trilogy begins with Jewels of the Sun, introducing Jude Murray, an American academic who travels to Ireland and finds herself drawn to the eldest Gallagher brother, Aidan. The subsequent books, Tears of the Moon and Heart of the Sea, follow the romantic journeys of Shawn and Darcy Gallagher, respectively. The charm of this series lies in its cozy, atmospheric setting and the authentic portrayal of sibling dynamics, making it a beloved classic.
Reading Tips for the Gallagher's of Ardmore Trilogy
To fully appreciate the interconnected stories and the gradual unveiling of the Gallagher family saga, reading this Nora Roberts book series in order is highly recommended. The relationships build upon one another, and the village of Ardmore itself becomes a character you get to know over time.
Action Step: Start with Jewels of the Sun. This novel not only introduces Aidan's story but also establishes the core setting of the pub and the central family conflicts that ripple through the entire trilogy.
Insider Insight: Embrace the cultural details. Roberts beautifully incorporates Irish folklore, language, and customs. Paying attention to these elements enhances the reading experience and deepens your connection to the characters and their world.
Reading Strategy: Treat the pub as the heart of the series. Gallagher’s Pub is the central hub where all character paths cross and relationships blossom. Viewing it as the anchor point helps you track the various connections within the community.
Pro Tip: For an expanded Irish experience, consider reading this trilogy alongside her Irish Born Trilogy (Born in Fire, Born in Ice, Born in Shame). While the stories are separate, they share a similar enchanting tone and explore complementary themes of Irish life and love.
7. The Circle Trilogy - Paranormal/Urban Fantasy Order
Nora Roberts masterfully blends paranormal romance with high-stakes urban fantasy in The Circle Trilogy. This series follows six guardians, a sorcerer, a scholar, a warrior, a witch, a shapeshifter, and one who has lost their way, as they unite to face an ancient vampire queen and her demonic army. Each book focuses on a different couple, but the overarching plot is a continuous, escalating battle between good and evil.
Starting with Morrigan's Cross, the series establishes the magical lore and introduces the six individuals destined to form the Circle. The beauty of this trilogy lies in how it interweaves three distinct love stories with a single, high-stakes quest. Reading this Nora Roberts book series in order is non-negotiable, as the plot builds directly from one book to the next, culminating in a final, epic confrontation.
Reading Tips for The Circle Trilogy
To fully appreciate the world-building and the development of the team's dynamics, you must follow the precise publication sequence. Each book builds on the last, raising the stakes and deepening the lore.
Action Step: Begin your journey with Morrigan's Cross. This first installment introduces the core conflict, the key players, and the foundational rules of magic that govern the world.
Insider Insight: Pay close attention to the development of the group as a whole. While each book spotlights a specific couple, the real strength of the trilogy is the evolving trust and synergy within the Circle of Six.
Reading Strategy: Keep track of the magical system and prophecies introduced early on. These elements are not just background details; they are crucial clues and plot devices that pay off significantly in the final book, Valley of Silence.
Pro Tip: This series is a fantastic gateway into Nora Roberts's paranormal and fantasy works. If you enjoy the blend of magic, romance, and modern-day settings here, you will likely love her other trilogies like The Sign of Seven and The Guardians Trilogy.
8. Corrigan Family Series (Born In Fire, Born In Ice, Born In Shame) - Multigenerational Irish Romance Order
The Born In Trilogy, also known as the Corrigan Family Series, is a masterful exploration of Irish culture, family bonds, and enduring love. Set against the enchanting backdrop of County Clare, Ireland, the series follows the three talented and passionate Concannon sisters as they navigate careers, romance, and the powerful legacy of their ancestral magic. Each novel focuses on one sister, weaving a standalone romance into a larger multigenerational family saga.
Starting with Born in Fire (1994), readers meet the fiery glass artist Maggie Concannon. The subsequent books, Born in Ice and Born in Shame, delve into the lives of her sisters, Brianna and Shannon. The true beauty of this trilogy lies in its rich character studies and the palpable atmosphere of Ireland, making it a cornerstone for those looking for the best Nora Roberts book series in order to appreciate her skill with character-driven narratives.
Reading Tips for the Corrigan Family Series
To fully appreciate the interconnected lives of the Concannon sisters and the subtle ways their family history shapes them, reading this trilogy in its intended publication order is crucial.
Action Step: Begin with Born in Fire. This novel introduces not only the eldest sister, Maggie, but also the central family dynamics and the enchanting Irish setting that are foundational to the entire trilogy.
Insider Insight: Pay close attention to the ancestral themes and how they echo through each sister's journey. The legacy of their parents and more distant relatives plays a significant role in their individual challenges and triumphs.
Reading Strategy: Consider creating a simple family tree as you read. Noting the connections between the sisters and their understanding of their shared past will enrich the emotional impact of the final book, Born in Shame.
Pro Tip: While each book features a distinct romance, the overarching story is about the sisters' relationship with each other. Notice how their bond evolves and strengthens from one book to the next, as this is the true heart of the series.
9. MacGregor Family Chronicles - Multigenerational Romantic Series Order
The MacGregor Family Chronicles is a sweeping, multigenerational saga that stands as a testament to Nora Roberts's mastery of family-centric romance. This beloved series introduces readers to the powerful, meddlesome, and utterly charming patriarch, Daniel MacGregor, a Scottish-American tycoon who makes it his life's mission to see his descendants happily married. The series is a sprawling family tree brought to life through passionate, heartwarming stories.
Beginning with Playing the Odds (1985), the series first focuses on Daniel’s adult children before expanding to include his spirited grandchildren. Each book functions as a standalone romance, but reading them in order unveils the beautiful, overarching narrative of a family bound by fierce loyalty and enduring love, all orchestrated by the indomitable Daniel.
Reading Tips for the MacGregor Family Chronicles
To fully appreciate the rich tapestry of this iconic Nora Roberts book series in order, following the generational progression is key. This approach allows you to watch the family grow and see the legacy of Daniel's matchmaking firsthand.
Action Step: Start with the books featuring Daniel’s children, beginning with Playing the Odds. This group of novels establishes the family's core dynamics and Daniel's delightful interference.
Insider Insight: The series includes historical prequels, like Rebellion and In from the Cold, which explore the lives of MacGregor ancestors. While published later, these can be read first for a deep historical context or saved for later as a special treat.
Reading Strategy: Keep a family tree handy. Many fan sites have created visual guides that are invaluable for tracking who’s who as the family expands across generations. This helps connect the dots between cousins and their romantic escapades.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the novellas and connected stories. Titles like The MacGregor Grooms and The MacGregor Brides are essential compilations that complete the stories of all the grandchildren, ensuring you don't miss a single happily-ever-after.
10. Stanislski Family Series - Russian-American Contemporary Romance Order
The Stanislski Family series is a prime example of Nora Roberts's talent for crafting intimate, multi-generational family sagas rich with cultural heritage. This series immerses readers in the lives of the vibrant and close-knit Stanislskis, a family of Ukrainian immigrants who have built a life in America. Following the publication order is key to appreciating the deep family bonds and the unfolding romances of each sibling.
Starting with Taming Natasha (1990), the series establishes the family's dynamics, traditions, and the strong personalities that define them. Each subsequent book focuses on a different family member finding love, but the stories are beautifully interconnected, with characters from previous books playing significant roles. The series is a heartwarming exploration of family loyalty, cultural identity, and the enduring power of love.
Reading Tips for the Stanislski Family Series
To fully experience the warmth and charm of this series and to correctly place it within a list of Nora Roberts book series in order, follow the intended sequence. This ensures you understand the evolving family relationships and character growth from one story to the next.
Action Step: Begin with Taming Natasha. This novel introduces the family's matriarch and patriarch and sets the stage for the romances of their children, providing the foundational context for the entire series.
Insider Insight: Pay close attention to the cultural elements. The family's Ukrainian heritage is not just background detail; it actively influences their values, traditions, and the conflicts they face, adding a unique layer of depth to the romance.
Reading Strategy: As you read, observe the recurring family dynamics, such as the protective nature of the brothers and the strong-willed independence of the sisters. These patterns are central to understanding each character's journey.
Pro Tip: This series was later expanded with stories about the next generation. After finishing the original six books, you can continue with Considering Kate (2001) to see how the family legacy continues, offering a satisfying long-term reading experience.
Nora Roberts: 10-Series Order & Genre Comparison
| Series | Implementation complexity | Resource requirements | Expected outcomes | Ideal use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| In Death Series (Eve Dallas) | High — 50+ interconnected volumes; reading order important | Large time commitment; 50+ novels + optional novellas; order tracking recommended | Deep character development, evolving relationships, cohesive worldbuilding | Readers seeking long-term crime/romance series with strong character arcs | Extensive continuity; well-documented publication order; genre mix (mystery/romance/SF) |
| Bride Series (Including In the Garden) | Low–Moderate — two interlinked trilogies with crossovers | Moderate — 6 books; follow Bride then In the Garden for best flow | Ensemble character familiarity, satisfying contemporary romances, strong friendships | Readers wanting accessible, character-focused contemporary romance with short commitment | Compact, approachable series; strong ensemble cast; easy entry for new readers |
| Sign of Seven Series | Low — three-book trilogy; linear mystery requires order | Small — 3 books; straightforward publication order | Resolved paranormal mystery with cumulative revelations | Fans of paranormal romance and mystery-driven trilogies | Tight narrative arc; focused worldbuilding; distinct paranormal tone |
| Celtic Trilogy | Moderate — time-travel and multiple periods; connections across books | Moderate — 3 books; attention to timelines and mythology needed | Rich mythological context and layered narratives across eras | Readers who enjoy historical fantasy with Celtic mythology | Unique mythic worldbuilding; varied settings across time periods |
| Chesapeake Bay Saga | Moderate–High — multigenerational cast and interwoven relationships | Moderate — 4 books; tracking family trees and business developments | Epic family saga, generational character growth, strong sense of place | Readers who enjoy multigenerational romance and community-driven plots | Broad scope; sustained character development; vivid coastal setting |
| Gallagher's of Ardmore | Low — trilogy with clear family/pub focus | Small — 3 books; culturally immersive but easy to follow | Charming, family-centered romances with Irish atmosphere | Readers seeking light Irish contemporary romance with warm family dynamics | Authentic Irish setting; each book functions independently |
| The Circle Trilogy | Moderate — complex magical system; publication order essential | Small — 3 books; careful tracking of magic rules and alliances | Developed magic system, escalating stakes, deepening relationships | Fans of witch-centered urban fantasy and strong female leads | Strong female protagonists; cohesive paranormal worldbuilding |
| Corrigan Family Series | Moderate — multigenerational family connections and ancestral themes | Small — 3 books; best read in order with family-tree notes | Emotional depth, family legacy exploration, interlinked romances | Readers who enjoy character-driven family sagas with Irish elements | Deeply emotional, character-focused storytelling; generational themes |
| MacGregor Family Chronicles | High — extensive, decades-spanning series with complex family tree | Large — many books across generations; external guides often helpful | Long-term immersion in a single family's legacy and recurring motifs | Readers wanting prolonged engagement and multiple entry points in a family epic | Vast breadth of stories; sustained generational development; many entry points |
| Stanislaski Family Series | Low — trilogy centered on Russian-American family | Small — 3 books; modest tracking of cultural and family details | Cohesive family-centered romances with cultural insight | Readers interested in culture-infused contemporary romance and family dynamics | Unique cultural perspective; strong family and heritage themes |
Your Next Nora Roberts Adventure Awaits
Navigating the expansive and captivating literary universe of Nora Roberts can feel like a grand adventure in itself. With dozens of series spanning multiple genres, from futuristic detective stories to sweeping Irish sagas and magical paranormal romances, the sheer volume of her work is a testament to her storytelling prowess. This guide was created to serve as your roadmap, ensuring you experience each narrative exactly as Roberts intended.
Following the correct Nora Roberts book series in order is more than just a matter of sequence; it’s about fully appreciating the intricate character development, the slow burn of relationships, and the subtle world-building that unfolds from one book to the next. When you read in order, you witness families like the MacGregors and the Stanislaskis grow across generations, and you uncover the layers of mystery and magic in trilogies like the Sign of Seven and The Circle Trilogy at the perfect pace.
Key Takeaways for Your Reading Journey
To make the most of your exploration into Roberts's worlds, remember these core principles:
Chronological vs. Publication Order: For most series, especially the sprawling In Death saga, publication order is the definitive way to read. This ensures you follow character arcs and plot developments as they were originally released to the public.
Embrace the Genre Shift: Don't be afraid to jump from a contemporary romance like the Chesapeake Bay Saga to a paranormal fantasy like the Celtic Trilogy. Roberts’s skill lies in her ability to masterfully craft compelling stories regardless of the genre, and exploring her variety is part of the fun.
Trilogies are a Perfect Starting Point: If you're new to Nora Roberts or feeling overwhelmed, starting with one of her trilogies is an excellent strategy. Series like the Gallagher's of Ardmore or the Born In trilogy offer a complete, satisfying story arc in just three books, giving you a perfect taste of her style.
Your Actionable Next Steps
With this guide in hand, you are now equipped to dive headfirst into any Nora Roberts series with confidence. The next move is yours to make.
- Choose Your First Adventure: Look back through the list. Did the magical allure of Ireland in the Celtic Trilogy call to you? Or perhaps the gritty, futuristic crime procedural of the In Death series sparked your interest? Pick the one that excites you most.
- Locate Book One: Whether you visit your local library, browse a bookstore, or download an e-book, your mission is simple: find the very first book in your chosen series. Starting at the beginning is non-negotiable for the best experience.
- Immerse Yourself: Set aside some time, find a cozy spot, and allow yourself to be completely transported. Roberts is a master of immersive storytelling, and your only job is to enjoy the ride.
By following the established Nora Roberts book series in order, you are setting yourself up for a richer, more rewarding reading experience. You will catch every inside joke, understand the history behind every family feud, and feel the full emotional impact of each character's journey. You are not just reading a collection of standalone stories; you are stepping into a series of carefully constructed worlds, each waiting to be discovered.
Tired of searching for the correct reading order for your favorite authors? Take the guesswork out of your reading list with Books In Order. Our platform provides meticulously verified, chronological, and publication order lists for thousands of authors, so you can spend less time researching and more time reading. Discover your next series at Books In Order and keep your literary adventures perfectly organized.
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