Cryptic crossword clue
Blackmail could be former lover's doing 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word EXACTION

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The straight part
We know that "Blackmail" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case blackmail = exaction.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does EXACTION mean?

EXACTION noun
  1. The act of demanding with authority, and compelling to pay or yield; compulsion to give or furnish; a levying by force
  2. Extortion.
  3. That which is exacted; a severe tribute; a fee, reward, or contribution, demanded or levied with severity or injustice.

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