Private: The Extended Edition

by Xavier Neal

From USA TODAY BESTSELLING author Xavier Neal comes a forced proximity, contemporary romance with a hint of mystery...

Billionaire Weston Wilcox is possessive.
Controlling.
Protective.
However, the business mogul that the masses haven't seen in over ten years finds himself out of options when a mysterious illness hits his beloved house attendant.
Due to its unknown nature and the possibility that it could be killing her, Weston is left with no choice but to invite his employee's only daughter, Brynley Winters, to stay at his estate as his concierge doctor desperately works to heal her.
Unfortunately for Weston, Brynley's unwanted visit quickly leads to a massive uncovering of secrets, lies, love, and hidden identities that have many on the property wishing things would've simply stayed private.

Genres: Billionaire Romance, Mystery

Unknown Binding

About the author

I'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.

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Reviews

[Sienasummerrreads]

DNF 22% page 92

Not sure what’s going on but it’s not grabbing me. May try again in the future.

[thebeespot72 · Rating 4 out of 5]

If a book comes my way that is a Beauty and the Beast retelling or reimagining, I’m likely going to read it. Xavier Neal’s “Private” is just that. Note that I did not read the original version but the “Extended Edition.” I would say that, as a whole, the story is not heavily Beauty and the Beast.

”Private” is a suspense with mystery. Weston, the MMC, is a billionaire who lives reclusively. He’s very much the alpha-controlling type. But when one of his workers, who is like a mother to him, becomes very ill, Wes recognizes that she needs her daughter with her. He reluctantly agrees though he does not want anyone coming in from the outside. Bryn, who is young, sassy, and has a profession that involves entertaining men, waltzes in to stay but ends up disrupting Wes’ life.

A lot goes on in “Private” as the story unfolds: the mysterious illness that plagues Bryn’s mom, Wes’ reclusiveness, and the developing romance between Bry and Wes. I enjoyed it all.

[Kay - kayreads_romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Xavier Neal and the DS Book Promotions team for this E-A R C!
All thoughts and opinions are my own 🥰

If you like Marine Biology, Star-Trek, Batman, and Beauty & the Beast - this is the book for you!

I enjoyed this a lot! I do wish there was an epilogue of something of the like, as the ending felt a bit abrupt BUT there is a second book so yay!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

Find more on my IG @kayreads_romance

⚠️ !! Please be sure to check any TWs before diving in !! ⚠️

What to expect:
* Billionaire
* Beauty & the Beast Retelling
* Forced proximity
* Romantic suspense


Spicy chapters:
11
12
13
16
17
21


My thoughts while reading:
🚨ALERT SPOILERS AHEAD🚨

“No one needs to see the grotesque beast of a billionaire I’ve become.”

“What can I do for you, Chicken Little? The sky isn’t actually falling, so I’d kind of like to move on with what’s left of my day.” Pleaseeee lmfao

Yall I have been caught up in this book omg it’s really drawing me in!!!!!

I am so suspicious of Bryn’s moms condition like I feel like someone is doing it to her idk Im getting bad vibes

“I, myself, have also been feeling a tad off. Noticeably nauseous, but no vomiting or diarrhea, leading me away from the idea of us sharing an unfortunately timed stomach bug to a conclusion I hate that I have to make.” Slowly, I shoot him another glare. “Which is?”
“She is most likely being poisoned.”
I FUCKING TOLD YOU!!

“And three, I get to see you.” All of a sudden, her voice dips in tandem with a digit gingerly starting to trace my spine. “All of you.”
Its slow descent summons my eyelids to fall. Breath to falter. Dick to rise.
“I’m talkin’ eyes. Face. Frame.” She continues the gradual, downward movement. “There will be absolutely no hiding anything from me.” Bryn wickedly winding her finger along my lower back occurs at the same time she searches for understanding. “Do you agree to my terms, Mr. Wilcox?”
The single word is growled rather than spoken, “Yes.” HEHEHHE I’m swoonin

I don’t trust Penny at all idk yall

“You touch me, you belong to me.” !!!!!

“For next time, little prey.” !!!!!

God he’s a biter lol go ahead

“Watch me fucking break you.” Omgggg

Taking the pictures together at the aquarium omgggg 😭😭🥰🥰💕💕

“Cyber investigated and concluded there was no hack. The photo was…” Park pauses to collect a breath of courage, “sent to a media outlet from a device in our network. And upon further…examination, the email appears to have come from Miss Brynley Winters’s account.” Oh nooooo!!
No there’s no way because she’s literally always losing her phone anyway!!!!

I FUCKINF KNEW IT I KNEW PENNY WAS EVIL

“You want my ass here doing this tour every day? Then this is where I’ll be.” Another step in her direction is taken. “You want me to pick you up from work? Drop you off? Meet you for lunch? Go for beers or wings with you and your coworkers?” Two more occur. “Then I will.” The instant I’m directly in front of her both hands land gently on her khaki pants covered hips. “I’ve let you have me in private. Now, I’m asking you to have me in public.” My grip slightly tightens. “However you see fit.” CRYING

[Catherine M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review

This Beauty and the Beast retelling is fast paced, full of twists and turns, and clouded with mystery. The suspense kept me on my toes and the little plot twist blew every theory I had, out of the water.

Wes and Brinley balanced each other so well! I felt like this was just the start of their love story. I loved JT’s character and the friendship he built with Bryn.

I enjoyed this book!

I would like to thank Xavier Neal and DS Book Promotions for the opportunity to read and review Private: The Extended Edition.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the "original" and while details are fuzzy, I know I enjoyed it. For that reason, I was excited to read the extended edition. Xavier stated she felt things were missing and plots weren't filled. I don't remember that but I always trust her to bring an amazing read.

Weston Wilcox is a self proclaimed "hermit"(although that's not the word I want, I just couldn't think of it while writing this. Might come back when I remember). Scarred and filled with guilt, he works on the sides and in the shadows letting his best friend be the face of the company. The company Wes is now the sole heir to.

Worried about his "motherly" employee's health, Wes permits an "outsider" to come into his safe place, his sanctuary.

Enter Brynley. I loved this character. She was unapologetically herself. She pushed Wes out of his comfort zone and in turn he pushed her to be a better version of herself.

The push and pull and banter of these characters filled the pages. I enjoyed watching their relationship grow as well as the friendship between JT and Bryn.
In the background, never too far away, is the storyline of Lauren, Brynleys mom and a pseudomom to Wes. Lauren continues to get sick off and on with no answers to why.

All these stories are playing out at the same time and intertwine with each other.

I read it before, so I knew how it ended....or so I thought.
Same story but different details. This had more background with characters as well as additional views into Wes and Bryn's relationship.

This is book 1 out of 3. I'd recommend reading it, and reading only this one.

[Adrianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hey, book lovers! 📚💖 I just wrapped up *Private* by Xavier Neal, and wow, what a wild ride! This forced proximity romance is packed with tension, secrets, and just the right amount of mystery to keep you on your toes!

First up, we have Weston Wilcox, the billionaire with a heart wrapped in layers of control and possessiveness. He’s the kind of guy who takes charge, but when his beloved house attendant falls mysteriously ill, everything changes. He hasn’t been in the public eye for years, and suddenly he’s inviting his employee’s daughter, Brynley Winters, to stay at his opulent estate. Talk about a twist of fate! 🏰💔

Brynley is a breath of fresh air! She’s not there to coddle Weston’s billionaire ego; instead, she’s determined and witty, making their forced proximity absolutely electric. The tension between them is palpable, and as Brynley digs deeper into the mystery surrounding her mother’s illness, secrets and hidden identities start to unravel. I found myself gasping at every twist! 😱💔

The beautiful way Neal explores love amid chaos really struck a chord with me. It’s not just about the romance; it’s about trust, vulnerability, and the power of connection.

If you’re into stories that mix intense romance with a touch of intrigue, grab *Private*—you won’t regret it! Perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a thrilling escape! 💕

[Fatima Barakat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was so good I really don’t know what to say..
It started out a bit slow for me until their interactions began and I was a goner.
I loved Ryan sassiness and quick wit it was something else, and it was so funny to read her ability to get Wes out of his shell it was amazing to read.

Reading their relationship was so endearing I loved every second of it how it progressed and how Ryan kept trying to coax Wes to live his life.

I haven’t read the original books or whatever they’re called but I’m so happy I got to read this one and I can’t wait for the next book in the extended version.

[Cody Smith-Candelaria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a story about a broken boy. LOL Wes is so broken, on all levels and I love that this book shows the intro to his healing. Don't get my wrong, Brynley is broken too just in a different way. I love how head-strong and sassy she is and how comfortable she is with who she is. I love the chemistry and tension between the two main characters. I adore JT. I always have a soft spot for a nerd and he has such an amazing supportive role in this tale. I love that there is mystery and deception and all the things. Great story, can't wait to see where book 2 takes us.

Ok, up above was my previous review but now that we have an updated version of the story, that is way more involved, I wanted to add a few things.
First, if you love comics, trek, sharks, and snark, this is so the book for you. I love the addtional growth of those things in the story, how they apply to each character, how they add to additional banter and how they create very special moments between them. I love the addtional scenes that show growth with the couple but also with friends and family. All of the extended parts are things I didn't know I needed and now can't imagine the story without. It's perfection!!

[Clary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Private was a great reimagined Beauty and the Beast retelling. I love seeing strong FMCs with no filters and who do what they want but at the same time love with all their heart instead of the typical damsel in distress, and Brynley is just what I love. Wes is your typical alphahole billionaire with a God complex but full of trauma and the deep down desire to be loved. I never understood how (or why) Wes ended up being able to make all medical decisions for Brynley's mom but seeing their relationship develop was definitely sweet. I'll admit it was a little predictable with who the villain is but it was definitely a great read, steam and sweet.

[Marianne Tuakoi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this Beauty and the Beast-esque type billionaire love story. Bryn is hysterical - her commentary and brashness when speaking is so funny. I love the banter between her and JT as well as JT and Wes - I actually laughed out loud a few times. I am looking forward to more of them and would love to see JT get a book too.

[Elizabeth Ruth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! The adult version of Beauty & the Beast with a mystery twist. It is seriously so good. Steamy and humorous in all the right ways. Two broken people that have to get over themselves to make it work. They bring out the best in each other. Secrets come out and wounds are healed.

[amberebooksandmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Ocean around them

I absolutely love them! I cannot wait to see what else this world has to offer. The way everyone stands beside him and then her makes me love them so much. It was such a well written story to fit their personalities to a chefs kiss ending.

[Jamie Stahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you get when you combine Batman, Star Trek, and sharks? Lots of great banter! All puns aside, this is a contemporary Beauty and the Beast story of a reclusive billionaire and the woman that changes his life completely. Add in a psycho stalker chick and you've got all the ingredients for a twisty turny plot with plenty of spice.

Even if you read the original version, this is worth reading again.

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Bryn and Wes's story when I originally read it and now with this extended addition it is even better. I adored the fierce Bryn with her sassy mouth and the epically swoon worthy Wes who was so powerful, yet also heart meltingly wounded. Sparks, spice, drama, emotion, humor, heart and twists make an irresistible combo that has you feverishly consuming pages as fast as you can and it will leave you anxious and eagerly craving book two.

[Maryger Chacon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Private: The Extended Edition by Xavier Neal, Brynley Winters is struggling to support herself, she is strong, she does not mince her words and she does not allow herself to be belittled by anyone. When we meet her, she has just lost the place where she was staying and it's right there that the right hand of her mother's boss comes to look for her, when she finds out that her mother is going through a difficult health situation from which she may not get out, she gets upset and swears she hates her mother's boss for not allowing her to go to a hospital but instead having her trapped inside his compound. Weston “Wes” Wilcox is a millionaire who has survived many things, he is a closed man and takes great care of his privacy, so much so that only a few on his property are allowed to see his face. Wes is a broken man and does not trust people, and finds himself in a situation beyond his control when the one who has been his housewife, and almost like a mother to him since he lost his, is suffering from a illness for which they cannot find the cause, and to try to ensure that she has what she needs, and almost forced by the doctor, his butler and his best friend, he brings the daughter of her housekeeper to be with her and see if this will help overcome whatever is happening with her health. But what Wes could never imagine was that Bryn's arrival was going to completely unbalance his orderly life and awaken feelings in him that he never imagined he would have. These two clash from the start, Wes doesn't know how to handle how Bryn makes him feel, and she just can't help but cause some chaos every time she opens her mouth. But it will inevitably end up creating a strong and intense connection between them, only nothing will be easy since Wes battles with his fears and insecurities and as much as he loves Brynley, he is not willing to compromise his privacy. But when Bryn manages to make him change, his loyalty is put to the test when everything points to her as the person who breaks his trust. Only there are more things that Wes doesn't imagine and when he discovers the truth it may be too late to repair his relationship with Bryn.
This story is great, it has a lot of drama and suspense, it has a mixture of a Batman-type mystery, a love story similar to Beauty and the Beast, all this makes it even more great. I couldn't put it down once I started reading it and I can't wait for the next book to find out what's going to happen. Wes and Bryn are wonderful, Bryn made me laugh out loud with the things that came out of her mouth and despite her less than ideal life situation she always stood up for herself and didn't let anyone put her down, a female lead like very few and I really loved that. Wes is broken, but we can see his sweet side with Bryn and although he tries not to show it, he also has a protective side with his best friend JT and his trusted employees. A group of characters that complement a very entertaining story. Totally, and Absolutely Highly Recommended!
*Thanks to Xavier Neal and DS Book Promotions for my ARC. I voluntarily leave my honest review*

Private: The Extended Edition de Xavier Neal, Brynley Winters se encuentra batallando para poder mantenerse, ella es fuerte, no se mide en sus palabras y no se deja menospreciar de nadie. Cuando la conocemos acaba de perder el sitio donde se quedaba y es justo allí que la mano derecha del jefe de su madre viene a buscarla, cuando se entera que es que su madre está pasando una difícil situación de salud de la que pueda no salir, se molesta y jura odiar al jefe de su madre por no permitirle que vaya a un hospital sino tenerla atrapada dentro de su complejo. Weston “Wes” Wilcox es un millonario que a sobrevivido muchas cosas, es un hombre cerrado y cuida mucho de su privacidad, tanto que solo de unos pocos dentro de su propiedad les permite ver su rostro. Wes es un hombre roto y no confía en la gente, y se ve en una situación fuera de su control cuando la que ha sido su ama de casa, y casi como una madre para él desde que perdió a la suya, esta sufriendo de una enfermedad de la que no encuentran la causa, y para tratar de que tenga lo que necesita, y casi obligado por el doctor, su mayordomo y su mejor amigo, trae a la hija de esta para que este con su adre y ver si asi la ayuda a superar lo que sea esta pasando con su salud. Pero lo que Wes jamás pudo imaginar fue que la llegada de Bryn iba a desequilibrar por completo su vida ordenada y despertando en él sentimientos que nunca imagino tener. Estos dos chocan desde el principio, Wes no sabe como manejar lo que Bryn le hace sentir, y ella simplemente no puede dejar de causar algo de caos cada vez que abre la boca. Pero será inevitable que termine creando entre ellos una conexión fuerte e intensa, solo que nada será fácil ya que Wes batalla con sus miedos e inseguridades y por mas que quiera a Brynley no está dispuesto a comprometer su privacidad. Pero cuando Bryn logra hacerlo cambiar su lealtad se ve puesta a prueba cuando todo la señale como la persona que rompe su confianza. Solo que hay mas cosas que Wes no se imagina y cuando descubra la verdad puede que sea demasiado tarde para reparar la relación con Bryn.
Esta historia es genial, tiene mucho drama y suspenso, tiene una mezcla de misterio tipo Batman, una historia de amor parecida a la Bella y la Bestia, todo esto la hace aún más genial. Yo no pude soltarla una vez comencé a leerla y no puedo esperar por el siguiente libro para saber que va a pasar. Wes y Bryn son maravillosos, Bryn me hizo reír a carcajadas con las cosas que salían de su boca y a pesar de su aituación de vida nada ideal ella siempre se defendió a sí misma y no dejo que nadie la menospreciara, una protagonista femenina como muy pocas y de verdad que eso me encanto. Wes está roto, pero podemos ver su lado dulce con Bryn y aunque trate de no mostrarlo también tiene un lado protector con su mejor amigo JT y con sus empleados de confianza. Un grupo de personajes que complementan una historia muy entretenida. ¡Total, y Absolutamente Altamente Recomendada!
*Gracias a Xavier Neal y a DS Book Promotions por mi ARC. Dejo voluntariamente mi reseña honesta*

[Lacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in alternating first-person dual POV, Xavier Neal’s Private: The Extended Edition explores the volatile relationship between reclusive billionaire Weston Wilcox and Brynley Winters, his house attendant’s daughter. Wes reluctantly invites Bryn to stay at his estate while his concierge doctor tries to heal her mom—and discovers the source/cause of the mysterious illness that appears to be killing his employee, who’s like a mother to him.

Neal’s engaging storytelling and descriptive writing draws you in from the opening scenes and keeps you turning the pages until the last page. Her characters are fascinating, fallible, messy, conflicted, related, likable, frustrating, and deftly developed through funny, emotionally intense, snarky interactions that reveal their characters and advance the plot. Neal’s color, hilarious, snappy, and natural-sounding dialogue fit her characters and theme.

One of my favorite things about Neal’s books is how she writes strong independent heroines that get in the hero’s face and set him straight when he’s wrong or interfering with her achieving her dreams or goals, and who will also stand up to heroes and other men when they’re disrespectful to her, other women, or someone she cares about. I love that about Bryn. She doesn’t back down from Wes or any other man. Like Neal’s other heroines I’ve read, she’s intelligent and goes after what she wants from life, even if it means going against what society thinks is acceptable or expects her—especially as a Black woman—to be.

I love how fascinated and taken Wes is with Bryn from the first moment he sees her. Everything about her gets to him. Neal uses vibrant description that incorporates the characters’ senses to explore and develop Wes’ and Bryn’s fiery chemistry, deep connection, and relationship through funny, charged, steamy, snarky, and emotional and intimate interactions and sex scenes. Erotic romance readers will enjoy the sex scenes because they are very detailed and steamy.

They’re a good match that brings balance to each other’s lives. Bryn helps him to let go of the past, come out of the dark into the light, and learn to live again by loving and accepting him as is and being genuine and keeping it real. He supports and encourages her to go after her dreams. I love the scenes with them talking and getting to know each other, where we learn more about their personalities, past, and dreams. The strip trivia scene is fun and cool because it showcases Bryn’s brilliance wonderfully. Throughout the novel, Neal consistently lets you know she’s smart, but sometimes Bryn is so prickly, in your face, and sometimes downright rude that it overshadows that. But as a beautiful, shapely Black woman, especially working her job, she has to present a certain façade. I get it!

Just when I wondered when Wes and Bryn would come up for air and check on her mother, Neal got back to it. She skillfully resolves the novel’s mini mystery/suspense plot. I can’t believe that not one of them put any of the pieces together, though. Wes really messes up when he causes their third act breakup with his appalling behavior and treatment of Bryn and her mother. He makes up for it, though. I’d love to read a full-blown romantic suspense book by her. The little bits in her novels I’ve read were fantastic.

I love Bryn’s relationship with J.T., Wes’ best friend and right-hand man who is the face of the company, and the nerdy friendship they develop over a shared love for a certain popular sci-fi franchise. Their banter is hilarious. She’s like a bratty younger sister to him.

Sweet, steamy, hilarious, sexy, emotional, and fast-paced, Private is a captivating read with a bit of mystery and suspense perfect for forced proximity, contemporary Beauty & Beast retellings, scarred hero, interracial romance, billionaire, angsty, and steamy romance fans.

3.5 stars

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently dove into Private (the extended version), and I must say, it was an exhilarating experience. This contemporary romance centers around a mysterious man who finds himself breaking his own rules to help a woman in need. From the very first page, I was captivated by the story and its characters.

The premise of Private instantly drew me in. The protagonist's struggle to maintain his anonymity while assisting someone he cares about creates a tension that kept me turning the pages. I appreciated how the plot unfolded at a steady pace, filled with unexpected twists that kept me guessing. As I read, I found myself thinking, "I absolutely love this! I can’t wait to see what else this world has to offer." Neal's storytelling truly kept me on the edge of my seat.

One of the highlights of this book for me was the depth of the characters. I felt a strong connection to the protagonist and his internal conflict. His journey was relatable, and I found myself rooting for him as he navigated his feelings and the challenges he faced. The supporting cast also added richness to the narrative, with each character bringing their own unique flair to the story. I loved how everyone rallied around the main characters, creating a sense of community that made me feel invested in their journey.

Overall, this is a must-read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romance. Xavier Neal’s writing is engaging, and the combination of a compelling plot and well-developed characters left me wanting more. I couldn’t help but think about how beautifully the characters supported each other throughout the story. This book has definitely made me eager to explore more of Neal's work, and I can't wait to see where the series goes next!

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐄𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 by Xavier Neal is a forced proximity, billionaire romance with a mystery on the side with definite Beauty and the Beast vibes. Weston Wilcox guards his anonymity and his estate with an iron fist, until a mysterious illness hits one of his most trusted house employees. Worried that she may not survive, he is forced to invite her daughter Brynley to stay with them. She single-handedly turned Weston’s ordered life upside down with an attraction he wasn’t expecting, and secrets and lies swirling around them. What will happen if he loses more privacy than he can bear?

I hadn’t read the original version, so I was excited to dive into this story! I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling, and this was unique and riveting from start to finish. Wes was possessive and controlling, yet vulnerable in a way that was endearing. Brynley stole the show for me with her hilarious sarcasm and sassy banter!!🤣 I loved the way she brought Wes out of his shell, and their chemistry together was definitely HOT!!🔥 The suspense aspect was so much fun with plenty of secrets, hidden identities, twists, and drama!! I can’t wait to read the next book!!

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

#RebrandRelease #privatetheextendededition #BillionaireRomance #ContemporaryRomance #ForcedProximity #BeautyandtheBeast #mysteryontheside #spicybooks #steamyreads

[Melinda Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Weston Wilcox and Brynley Winters captured my heart. Their chemistry, the push and pull, it had me feeling that book love.

Weston kept himself hidden behind a smoke and mirrors set up. Determined to keep his family name with honor. He controls and commands his empire. Unfortunately, he can’t control what’s slowly consuming the woman that holds a special place in his home and life. He allows the woman’s daughter to enter his private world for the sake of her well being. However, Brynley is most definitely not what he expected, and absolutely not what he should be wanting…but he does. Brynley makes no apologies nor concessions for the woman she is. She owns her bad self. What Weston didn’t expect was for her to own him as well. Something about her brought him a peace, a longing, a contentment. He found himself navigating waters that were choppy and yet soothing. This woman was meant to be his, except on her terms. Can he withstand her storm?

This couple’s dynamics were so exhilarating. I loved how Brynley pushed Weston’s buttons, but in a manner that proved her love for him. Relationships are easy. Mistakes are made. But love can overcome if given a chance.

[liz_loves_reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner from Xavier. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is the extended edition of Private and is such a great story with interesting characters, mystery and of course LOL Batman references 😊

Weston Wilcox is the reclusive billionaire who has hidden away from the world after a tragedy a decade earlier.
He works in the shadows and relies on JT his business partner to be the 'face' of Wilcox Industries.

All changes when Lauren his housekeeper/mother-figure is struck down with a strange illness. He has no choice but to allow her daughter to visit.

Brynley is a breath of fresh air; strong- willed, brazen, and sassy, and is such a contrast to the brooding authoritative controlling Wes.

There was so much to love, especially the push and pull between them. Both in their own ways are broken and it was a delight to be at the start of their journey towards healing visible and hidden scars.

I cannot wait to read more of their story in Public.

[Cheryl Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This 'Beauty and the Beast' retelling is one of the better ones. It has intrigue, danger and the best and mouthiest female lead character I have come across in a long time.

Wes is an ultra reclusive billionaire and Batman fan. After an accident left him badly scarred he retreated from society and lets his best friend be the face of his company.
"They may hear my voice. They may feel my wrath. But they will not see my face. They don't need to see my face."

Brynn studied marine biology and is struggling with her student loans while trying to find a job in her field. Best of all she's a Star Trek fan.
"I have enough decency to be honest about who I am to strangers as much as those I call friends. I have enough integrity to live authentically despite how uncomfortable it may make others feel at times."

When these two nerds meet all hell breaks loose. I enjoyed the story immensely and will be reading the next book in the series: 'Public'.

[drusilla duke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Weston Wilcox hasn't left his house in years due to something from his past, yet when his housekeeper falls ill he finds himself with no other option than to invite her daughter (Brynley) to stay with him. The humour within this book was fun to read, as it didn't feel forced and felt realistic. I loved the sprinkle of Batman jokes as it helped build in with their characterisation. Brynley and Weston are perfect for each other, as Brynley's character is one that Weston needs in his life. Their humour and emotional connection were nice to read about. I liked their interactions with the side characters as it helped build more depth around them. I did end up guessing the answer for the mystery element quite soon but the plot was still interesting and unique.

Thank you to DS Book Promotions and Xavier Neal for giving me a free copy in return for an honest review.

[LaydeeOfLiterature · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first received a message about reading an ARC of this book I wasn't sure what to expect but it was a modern day Beauty and the Beast retelling, which caught my eye immediately. I just have to say, you sure picked the right girl because much like Bryn, I too am a Trekkie 🖖 I also have a deep love for Batman so this book was right up my alley! The banter was phenomenal 🙌 All the references to their hobbies were like a blast from the past for me, I loved it! The side characters made the story even better, I adored all the different friendships. But my favorite part was how much Bry and Wes were instantly drawn to each other. Being in the same room as them together was like being in a mine field, they were going to combust, you just didn't know when! Once Wes pulled his head outta his ass and opened his eyes I really enjoyed him daring to push his limits!

[Stef · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️'s: 4/5
🌶's: 2/5

Thank you very much to Xavier Neal for giving me the opportunity to read and review this enjoyable story! 🤍 I never expected this book to be that intriguing and mysterious. OMG! Hands down to Bryn, she's a strong, independent, sassy, funny, and very intelligent girl, that's why she is my favorite character 🥰 Wes and Bryn are such an adorable and powerful couple 🩷

I'm so eager to read the next book 🫶🏻

My favorite quotes:

- "Seeing him like this... so unrestrained...so uninhibited...so...unhidden...tells me exactly what it is I've just told him. Weston Wilcox is now mine. And only mine."

- "Weston Wilcox is by far the best man a woman could ever ask for."

[Frommailenesbookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you so much for this ARC! 🥹

This book was heavy on Batman references, but I was still able to laugh and understand these hot nerds 😆 Bryn lets no one tell her how to act or who to be and I love her so much for that.

I really liked that Wes was able to see himself through Bryn' eyes with time and that even though they were different, they were perfect for each other.

🖤 Billionaire Romance
🖤 Alpha Male
🖤 Forced Proximity
🖤 Opposites Attract
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🖤 Beauty and the Beast Retelling

[Jennifer Swift · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very cute modern day beauty & the beast retelling. Wes is a alpha, possessive, billionaire who needs to come to terms with the past and tragedy. Bryn is his perfect other half. She is a sassy and strong character with a tad of nerdiness. She is comfortable with who she is and not afraid to be herself.

Bryn is able to help Wes heal and come to terms with his past. The story has lots of mysteries and pieces that all fall together in the end. I love that Bryn has goals and isn't afraid to reach those goals no matter how long it may take.

I highly recommend Wes & Bryn story.

[Mayra Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Private: The Extended Edition by Xavier Neal
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

Just loved this retailing of the Beauty and the Beast. Xavier did an amazing job of creating a retail of a fan favorite fairy tale. Private it's full of twists and turns, with enough mystery, and is a fast paced read. Xavier created characters and a plot with a depth development that keeps you on your toes. I loved Wes and Brinley, their chemistry and how well they complemented each other was a delight to read. Private is definitely a must read book.

[B Rad · Rating 4 out of 5]

When opposite attract, everything seems to try to pull them apart. It felt like a murder mystery without the murder. The back and forth banter because of the MMC unwillingness to change for the better due to his guilt, only to show that he indeed will do anything for his woman to be and stay his woman. Then the FMC is literally just rolling with the punches of life, and isn't letting anything take nor keep her down. A baddie if you will

[Swati Limaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Private was my first book from this author and I received it as an ARC. Wes and Bryn were great as the live versions of the Beast and Belle (Beauty). This book was full of friendship, love, angst and suspense. Though the writing was good, I felt the storyline got a bit disjointed on occasion. I believe a little more details on all the characters’ backgrounds would complete the story. A good story overall.

[Christina Colville · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Wes & Bryn's story! Bryn has such a fun, sassy attitude, and is a great balance to Wes. I loved that Wes was willing (if not reluctant) to push out of his comfort zone for Bryn. I also loved Wes' relationship with Bryn's mother, and his groveling at the end of the book. I think my favorites were their picnic date at the lake, and their aquarium date.
Note: This is book 1 of a trilogy that is not complete yet. This does not end on a cliffhanger!