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Clandestiny: Two broken paths. A chance meeting when they needed it the most. A love guided by destiny.

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Two broken paths. A chance meeting when they needed it the most. A love guided by destiny.

When Jett Sharpe returns home from a six-month training program after joining his new covert operations team, the last thing he expects is to be starting over. His homecoming quickly turns into his worst nightmare when he finds out his cheating wife dropped his beloved Mags off at an animal shelter.

Moxie Hall does her best to live a quiet and simple life despite a constant dark shadow that looms over her, threatening her every move. After years of volunteering at the local animal shelter, she finally decides to adopt a dog when her path crosses that of a fiercely loyal German Shepherd.

Both battling their own struggles, Jett and Moxie add another layer to their complicated lives when they meet because of their love for Mags. While luck seems to be absent from both their lives, they may find out that destiny is on their side.

482 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 16, 2026

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About the author

Baley Noal

8 books34 followers
Hi, I'm Baley, a Pacific Northwest Native who writes gritty contemporary romance. I'm all about those Lifetime over Hallmark vibes with my book babies. All my novels are PNW-coded, include besties that'll make you feel like you're part of the crew, open door swoony spice, banter that hits, dogs with MC energy, and of course, a happily ever after.
Currently, I have my Starstruck duology (Starstruck and Starstruck: The Trials), Grit City, and my newest stand-alone, Clandestiny is currently available for ARCs on NetGalley and officially releases on February 16, 2026.

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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,487 reviews125 followers
April 7, 2026
Clandestiny by Baley Noal

~ Sometimes the worst day in your life can serendipitously change your life…for the better ~

What I liked:
* Mags: long haired German Shepherd, strong, caring, well-trained, loyal, steadfast, protective, essential to the meeting of two soul mates
* Moxie Hall: independent, raised by a single parent, accountant-CPA-Financial Advisor, volunteers at animal rescue, good friend, stalked by abusive ex-boyfriend, adopted Magnolia-Nolie-Mags from the pound, someone I would want as a friend
* Jett Sharpe: elite military soldier – Ghost Shadow Elite – GSE, owner of Mags since she was 8 weeks old, lethal, protective, professional, protective, team player, cuckolded by his wife while away in special training, rather taken with Moxie
* The meet-cute in the hotel and how Jett quickly steps up to assist Moxie and Mags
* Watching the relationship develop between Moxie and Jett and how perfect they were for one another – loved that they put one another first and gave more than they took
* Vera: Moxie’s best friend, met Moxie at the animal shelter she works at, strong, protective, there for Moxie
* Jett’s tight military team and their brotherhood – there for one another whether on a mission or at home
* Roman: Moxie’s client, lawyer, related to one of Jett’s team members, admires Moxie, steps up to help keep her safe
* The way the thorns in Jett’s side were dealt with: Heather-Jett’s cheating pregnant by another man wife, Trevor-Jett’s cousin who took Heather’s side, Julia-Trevor’s wife and best friend of Heather, and William/Billy-Heather’s baby daddy and rather evil in other ways, too
* Reading a new to me author that I thoroughly enjoyed

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about abusers and wondering what makes them the way they are

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and ElfElm Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review
5 Stars
Profile Image for ElfElm Publishing.
86 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 15, 2026
"Clandestiny" was jam-packed with drama, chuckles, dog-lover goodness, and little mentions of food (cookie dough, YUM) that made me wish I was able to reach in and grab some snacks. I'm also a big fan of wordplay, and the mashup of destiny and clandestine for the title made me smile.
The story has gritty and dark themes, including DV, trauma, and ex-drama, so it's probably not for lighter "Hallmark" romance lovers, although there is PLENTY of cute and funny banter that had me giggling out loud. 

Baley Noal always features a loveable dog companion, and this book doesn't disappoint with Mags, the wonderful and protective German Shepherd that is the catalyst of fate to bring our FMC Moxie and MMC Jett together. Moxie is so sweet, but skittish (rightly so because she has been THROUGH it), and Jett is a take-names-kick-butts real-life action hero, part of an elite special forces group who pretty much swoons for Moxie at first meeting. They are pretty dang cute together, and Moxie is able to finally relax and trust that she's safe with him, becoming more and more herself and growing in confidence. 

We meet their friends too, and some of those friends meet each other, and... shenanigans. There are some HILARIOUS scenes. 

Be prepared for some swoony, spicy scenes... But also some scenes that will have your eyes wide as saucers wondering "WHAT?!" There are some things that there's no redemption for. But SOME redemption is had in a big way, sorry no spoilers :) Definitely a little twist is given towards the end, eek!

Expect to go through the gamut of emotions on this rollercoaster, but the epilogue will have you going "awwwwww."

Tropes: Soul mates, Adopt don't shop, Horrible exes, Trauma, "Who did this to you?", Military, He falls first, and more!
Profile Image for Katie Monohan.
Author 5 books20 followers
February 18, 2026
Clandestiny completely had me in a chokehold.

From the very first chapter, I was hooked—but the way this story escalates is what truly sets it apart. The tension builds layer by layer until you are physically incapable of putting it down. By the final act, I was counting the minutes until I could finish it.

Jett is alpha in the best possible way—competent, protective, decisive—but never emotionally careless. His strength isn’t just physical; it’s in his restraint, his loyalty, and the way he shows up when it matters most. Watching him balance tenderness with righteous fury was incredibly satisfying.

Moxie’s arc is beautifully done. She begins the story battered and afraid, but this is not a story about a woman being saved—it’s about a woman reclaiming her strength. By the end, she isn’t the same person she was in the beginning, and that transformation feels earned, not rushed.

The romantic tension? Off the charts. The spice? Strong and well-integrated into the emotional stakes. The suspense? Relentless in the best way.

The antagonist threads are handled masterfully. The resolution is sophisticated, deeply satisfying, and exactly the kind of justice you hope for in a story like this.

This book lingers. I’m still thinking about it.

Baley Noal has absolutely skyrocketed to the top of my favorite authors list. If you love alpha protectors, emotional depth, high-stakes tension, and romance that feels both passionate and grounded—this one is a must-read.

Thank you to Baley Noal and ElfElm Publishing for the ARC copy of this book! I’m so grateful for the chance to read it early. This review reflects my honest opinions.
616 reviews14 followers
February 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this book... it hooked me from the beginning & I had a hard time putting it down. I did become concerned around 1/4 of the way through the 400 page book, that since Jett & Moxie had already hooked up, why was there another 300 pages & would it drag?? But, it didn't!! It was a fast read & I loved it.

I am of the opinion that the military is not represented enough in romance books & I appreciated Jett representing here... I loved how gentle he was with Moxie, who had obviously been abused & he just found out his ex not only cheated on him, but also gave his dog to the shelter.... I also loved that Moxie wasn't ever afraid of Jett, even after being abused... sometimes you can just tell who is a good guy & who isn't (sadly, not always true as some jerks can be deceiving...but that's another story).

The characters were all amazing & I loved the unexpected plot twists.

I appreciated the author's description of the book & agree that while there are a couple "light" dark elements to the book, it's not really a DARK book... I wouldn't really consider the book dark, but I read a lot of dark books & don't mind it, so I can recognize that some would be a bit more sensitive to it.

I look forward to reading more books by the author!!

Thanks to the author (Baley Noal), publisher (ElfElm Publishing, LLC) & Netgalley for the ARC read. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jessica.
40 reviews3 followers
July 6, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Another 5-star read from Baley Noal! I absolutely loved Clandestiny. I finished it in just two days because I couldn't put it down—I read 50% the first night alone.

Jett's story grabbed me from the very beginning. Watching a warrior come home expecting one thing only to be met with heartbreaking betrayal was emotional, and my heart broke for him. Then there's Moxie, whose own struggles make her such an easy character to root for. Their connection felt natural, and I loved watching their relationship develop at the perfect pace.

One thing Baley Noal always does so well is the pets, and Mags completely stole my heart! The animal storyline added so much warmth and emotion, and as always, the pet duo was one of my favorite parts of the book.

This story has heartbreak, healing, loyalty, hope, and a beautiful romance that reminds you sometimes the best things come when you least expect them. The chemistry between Jett and Moxie was wonderful, and their journey to a happily ever after was so satisfying.

If you love military romance, found family, lovable animals, emotional healing, and a romance that will keep you turning pages, I highly recommend Clandestiny. Baley Noal has done it again!
Profile Image for Katelin Davis.
129 reviews1 follower
February 17, 2026
From the start of the book the author hits the ground running with a great opening and leaving you wondering and wanting to know more. Side note: Pineapples do NOT belong on pizza, but agreed die hard is for sure a Christmas movie. Lol
Okay, resuming with the review. The characters have been developed so well that it feels like you’e feeling what they are. You’re experiencing their romance. The little moments that are leading to the building of a love story are so cute. Not to mention, the banter with friends is spot on and hilarious. I want to try a Dragonfruit margarita, yum! Cousin camp, the camp everyone wants to be at! Perfect tradition I want to do and also the “explosion” we’ve been waiting for. Happy to report that the villains all got what they deserved and also the author did a great job showing that not all family has to be blood. As always, incorporating a fur baby is something I love about this authors novels. Mags is the best most loving and loyal fur baby. I love a good happy ending and the author does not disappoint. Overall, this was such a good read and can’t recommend it enough.
Profile Image for Sara Walker.
6 reviews
February 20, 2026
Received and read as an ARC from NetGalley.

Our story focuses on Jett, our mmc, and Moxie, our fmc, who have a chance encounter and fall for one another while sharing a deep bond with their dog Mags. Jett comes home from military training to find his wife has taken his dog to the animal shelter, where Moxie has adopted Mags looking for safety and also saving Mags in the process. When the two cross paths, it’s destiny.

As with all of Baley Noal’s novels, I was sucked in from page one and frequently read well into the early morning hours, not wanting to put it down. The cast of characters ranged from completely enamored and adored to the absolutely despised. She has a way of really capturing her characters essence. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for the tiniest of tiptoes into a darker romance genre, as it’s so well balanced to not be in your face dark. As always, there’s not a single drop of miscommunication between our love interests, which is a huge breath of fresh air when reading in the romance category.

Thank you so much Baley Noal and ElfElm publishing for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Profile Image for Kara  Browe.
6 reviews
April 24, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A gripping blend of suspense, emotion, and unexpected connection

Clandestiny pulls you in right away with its dual-story setup and high-stakes emotional tension. Jett’s return home after covert training immediately sets a serious, almost shadowed tone, and the twist involving his dog adds a surprisingly heartfelt layer that grounds the story in real emotion. Moxie’s storyline is equally compelling—her quiet strength, past struggles, and the looming sense of danger around her make her feel complex and relatable from the start.

What really makes this book stand out is how naturally the two characters’ worlds collide. Their connection through shared circumstances and personal pain doesn’t feel forced—it unfolds in a way that keeps you invested in both of their journeys. The pacing keeps things moving without losing depth, balancing romance, suspense, and emotional stakes well.

Overall, this is a strong read for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense with layered characters, a bit of mystery, and emotional depth. It’s one of those stories that’s easy to finish in a sitting because you keep wanting to know what happens next.
Profile Image for Alexandra Vlaming.
341 reviews2 followers
February 5, 2026
Clandestiny is a romance built on the concept of destiny, and random chance, centrally around two people who love the same dog. Jett loves his dog Mags, and when he returns home from military training he is dismayed to find his wife has given away his treasured dog. Moxie is a woman looking for safety and she finds it in Mags, whom she adopts. Jett and Moxie eventually find each other, and possibly a shared love that goes beyond Mags.

As a romance, I think this will be better suited to those who like a military centered story, as Jett’s military service is a central plot point throughout. Overall this story wasn’t for me, it features many plot points and character notes that don’t work for me, but I am sure will be a much better fit for a different reader. Bailey Noel tells a complete story, including a full and well written cast of characters, and I have to admit, the final twist did catch me off guard, so be ready!

Many thanks to the author and ElfElm Publishing for providing an advance copy in exchange for a review.
Profile Image for Crystal Ortiz.
179 reviews1 follower
July 16, 2026
Soldier love

So biggest heads up warning this is a DV book.

Coming from a divorced life myself from a military soldier this entire book made me a little thrown off . I don't normally read soldier books anymore because if it.. even though this one was on the opposite side of the affair and yes it does happen more often than not I lived on the other.. it's sad for me.. but I pushed on..

Moxie well she's strong.. poor thing has gone through the ringer but she also is accepting too quick I want her to be head strong fierce stronger.. but shes just so frail and Magnolia is exactly what she needed in her life though, not even Jett lol.. but he was an added bonus and an absolute gentleman which makes it so sad and hard to believe that anyone could ever just cheat on him.. but what he builds with Moxie is one of a kind and I enjoy it very much
Profile Image for Netasha.
94 reviews3 followers
March 3, 2026
A very very strong premise and I loved the plot! Jett was an emotionally intelligent, swoonworthy alpha protector and I couldn't help but root for Mox from the very beginning. GET YOUR MAN GIRL. WOOF.

The tension building with each chapter is what really got me and I couldn't put this down. Baley made it so easy to fall for these characters, especially Mags, sweet girl.

Overall, the writing could use a little work, but the premise/plot/execution was well done, the tension was palpable and stakes were high, I'd definitely be interested in reading other works by this author!

2.75 ⭐️
1 🌶️
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
February 8, 2026
I enjoyed this book a lot. I enjoyed that the concept of destiny, fate, and true love was told through this story of an adorable German Shepherd bringing these two broken souls together. As a dog lover I loved it. This is a military romance too, which for me I don't read much of but I did like this one. If you enjoy reading a rough around the edges gentleman military man who will do ANYTHING to protect his lady love and a plot twist you won't see coming this one is for you.

Trigger ⚠️: Some domestic violence content.
5 reviews
September 13, 2026
Just like every other Baley Noal book, it’s soooo sad when it’s over! This author is incredible at character development for not only the main characters, but ALL the supporting characters too. I loved the story, and the friendship and chosen family woven throughout was heartwarming. As always- the spicy characters with the quick wit are hilarious and fun. The SPICE was sweet and swoony 💛 Jett has moved to top of the list for book boyfriends 100%… special ops BA is 🥵💛 ah! I loved it so much, I miss it already. Is it too soon to just read it again?!
Profile Image for Skylar Keeton.
230 reviews7 followers
April 5, 2026
Book Review
Clandestiny by Baley Noal
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you ElfElm Publishing, LLC for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

This book was so good, and packed with drama!!
I enjoyed the story and the characters. They were well written and the plot was at a good pace to keep up with. I look forward to reading more by this author.
#Clandestiny #NetGalley
Profile Image for Elise Louman.
5 reviews
April 6, 2026
Jett is definitely a new book boyfriend - he loves dogs, a badass military man, and he protects and comforts?! 10/10

Definitely had high suspense and dark themes, but the “who did this to you?” had me devouring this to see what he’d do. I’m a dark romance girlie and I loved that the characters took matters into their own hands to keep Moxie safe.

Their relationship was sweet and spicy, and I loved that they made time to take care of each other. Such a good read!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Robin Blackburn.
Author 1 book22 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 12, 2026
Clandestiny is a heartfelt, emotional romance about loss, loyalty, and second chances. Jett and Moxie’s connection feels authentic, and Mags the German Shepherd completely steals the show. If you love wounded heroes, strong heroines, and a dog who brings them together, this one is a win.
473 reviews3 followers
July 24, 2026
Clandestiny

I loved this story! The trial and errors of finding your true love was amazing yet the troubles they had to overcome were devastatingly hard. The ending was so rewarding.
Profile Image for Lisa Richardson.
28 reviews
July 25, 2026
Swoon worthy jett.

Jett and mod are perfect for each other and we're who they need to find. Lots of twist and turns but such a good story! I want to slap the shit out of Julia and hallie but I know I'm not alone. Mags is the star if the book! Who doesn't love a good puppers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
30 reviews1 follower
July 31, 2026
This book started off with an emotional bang. Jett and Moxie both have hard things they are going through and meet and bond over their love for Mags. Mags is a great protector and companion. Jett and Moxie's grows from strangers to friends to more. The suspense was good throughout.
Profile Image for bookish206.
78 reviews
September 8, 2026
Jett Sharpe is a 34 year old professional in the field of covert operations. He is an alpha in every sense of the word: strong, commanding, a leader, and a protector. Jett's world crumbles when he comes home to find his wife of eight years pregnant with another man's baby. As if that wasn't bad enough, his "wife" took his beloved dog, Mags, to the shelter because she wasn't getting along with her baby daddy.

Moxie Hall is a petite 26 year old that has her own private business as a CPA. She starts off as timid and scared because of her circumstances. However, we see her open up and really come into her own as the story unfolds. I really enjoyed her character growth.

Moxie and Jett’s relationship was so swoon-worthy. The sexual tension in the beginning was palpable. Their witty banter throughout the story had me cracking up and smiling. Although there was an age gap they complimented each other so well. Moxie and Jett each had their own struggles but they ultimately find healing, happiness, and love.

Come for the sweet and steamy romance but stay for the found family, lovable cousins (most of them), and the most loyal companion. 🐾 I loved Papa’s words of wisdom: “Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one and they all stink.” 😂 This was my first novel by Baley Noal and it will definitely not be my last!
Profile Image for Cari Twash .
2 reviews
February 19, 2026
Love love this story!! I loved the way the characters fall into each others world and just collide perfectly. Not to mention it’s set up in the PNW..can never go wrong with that!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews