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Philanthropist or Antagonist?

Billionaire, Weston Wilcox, has finally come into the light. Not only is he actively attending more meetings and allowing his face to constantly be photographed beside his bodacious fiancé's, he's also opened the door for journalists to take a peek behind the curtain at the man he has become. Despite his seemingly compassionate nature, there are rumors that it is all a facade. Accusations that he is not only using his charitable moments to distract the public from his devilish intentions, but to keep his family secrets buried. Family secrets Weston wasn't aware he had. However, the public doesn't want real answers, they want a juicy story. Blogs and media outlets don't want facts, they want dirty details. Will Weston Wilcox retreat back to the private lifestyle he once loved or will he find a way to adjust to his new life that is now PUBLIC?

363 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 6, 2017

246 people are currently reading
152 people want to read

About the author

Xavier Neal

132 books2,258 followers
I'm USA TODAY Bestselling Romance Author who has published over ninety works to date.

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5 stars
185 (50%)
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122 (33%)
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46 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Rosie.
1,652 reviews32 followers
December 9, 2017
3.5 Stars

I'm not sure what happened to this heroine this time around. She was very combative, argumentative and she talked too damn much and it came back to haunt her and the hero.

Longer review to follow soon ...
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
December 7, 2017
Wes is just full of logic, “yes, but the institute isn't far from our penthouse, which is the entire reason we've been sleeping here all week. I'm going to take advantage of its benefits, the most important being that I can eff you properly and still get to work on time.” Brynley doesn't let her man get away with nothing, "...that I should’ve just forgotten the rest of the world fucking exists because I didn’t like what was going on in my life..." I liked this book, loved Wes.
Profile Image for Nene.
1,784 reviews26 followers
February 18, 2018
Good Read

Trials and tribulations, I hope that JT finds love he deserves it. It sucks that I have to wait to find out what happens next.
Profile Image for Teresa Lara.
3,481 reviews53 followers
December 7, 2017
I loved Wes and Brynlys amazing love story.Emotional intense . excellent read.I need more♡
Profile Image for Tish.
1,532 reviews5 followers
December 11, 2017
Absolutely loved this one!! This is the second part and Bryn and Wes' story and it just made me love them even more. In this one Wes has really come out of his shell and now they are having to adjust to their relationship being out in the public eye. Can their relationship survive the scrutiny? You'll have to read it for yourself to find out.

This book was given to me at my request and I provided this review voluntarily
Profile Image for Kaygee.
338 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2020
Really a3.5

The journey of Wes and Brynley continues. My least favorite character is Bryn. It's good to have a person for some crudeness and levity, but sometimes she was OTT, although I like how her pregnancy gave her some emotions. I didn't like how JT was barely in this story . I still like Wes, and I appreciated Lauren's parable.
Profile Image for Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews).
1,452 reviews32 followers
December 11, 2017
“I will spend the rest of our lives being the man you learned to love in private and have always been proud to love in public.” ~ Wes

Public is another 5-star read from Xavier Neal! It picks up with Wes and Brynley where Book 1 left off. Wes is trying to deal with life in the public eye again with Brynley by his side. It is proving to be an uphill struggle for him as you will find out not long after beginning the book. Secrets, lies, and betrayals will surface, but the question is how will Wes handle it? Will he try to retreat back into his private bubble? Will he trust Brynley or end up pushing her away?
Wow! This book takes off right out of the gate. Wes becomes the target of innuendo and gossip. The more he does to prove he is a compassionate business man, the more the media wants to show that he isn’t. He has so much pressure being back in the spotlight and with his new merger underway. He is not a man who likes being out of control, but it seems that is where his life is headed. Even though he and Brynley are engaged, problems begin to rear their ugly heads. He wants to make sure she is safe, but Brynley is a grown woman, and she definitely knows how to take care of herself. She is feeling the pressure in her job as well, and an unexpecting surprise will throw them for a loop. These two have always butted heads as much as they love one another, and that makes for a passionate but sometimes very complicated relationship.

One thing I like about Neal’s writing is she doesn’t gloss over things. She writes about real issues in relationships, and this book is no different. Yes, Wes has more wealth than he knows what to do with, but money doesn’t make your problems go away. She shows her readers that it can actually add to already existing problems. You don’t know who to trust and who cares for you because of the type of individual you are or because of your net worth. Wes and Brynley definitely experienced growing pains in their relationship, and the two will have to work hard to find a compromise or else risk losing one another. They are two awesome people who make an awesome couple.

Some of my favorite series have been written by the amazing Xavier Neal. She continues to build on her characters with each book. She always makes me feel like I’m getting to know another level with each character. This is what keeps me coming back for more. The story of Brynley and Wes isn’t over. Their love story isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes them Brynley and Wes, so I will tell them good-bye until the next time! I can’t wait to see them again!

***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Profile Image for Loren.
221 reviews
December 8, 2017
I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Xavier Neal has blown me away with book 2 in the Private series. My thought not far into the story was “Bravo” – I read it in less than 24 hours. The continuation of Wes and Brynley’s story had me sighing, swooning, chuckling, as well as cringing. Billionaire Wes Wilcox is finally in the Public eye after ten years of remaining totally in Private, his company is thriving, and he and Brynley are planning a wedding. The couple’s steamy intimacy is off the charts, and the bantering with JT is still priceless. I was on pins and needles wondering how the unexpected storylines would play out and how much damage would be done to Wes and Brynley’s relationship. Would past demons and indiscretions destroy them, or would they rise above it all? I love Wes even more now, and despite not being Brynley’s biggest fan in the first book, I’ve warmed up to her. If you haven’t started this series, go read Private and then move on immediately to Public. Public might now be my favorite Xavier Neal book. I hope she doesn’t make me wait too long for the third in the series.
Profile Image for Laura .
1,013 reviews25 followers
February 16, 2024
I loved Private! Bryn and JT had me laughing frequently. Plus their had so many fabulous one-liners whether it was between Bryn & JT, JT & Wes, or Wes & Bryn. I wish that had continued into Public.

For me there wasn't enough banter. It was instead filled with jealousy and miscommunication. Now I will say the reporter added an interesting storyline, and had me questioning the person behind the leaks. The person I thought it was had mentioned needing money, so this would have been the perfect opportunity. The fighting between Wes and Bryn was a bit much at times. Wes is seriously lucky that she keeps forgiving him.

I really enjoyed the "parable" that Lauren relayed to Wes. You just know there was truth laced in there.

Curious to see what happens in Personal.

Not everything is life or death, Wes. Sometimes bad shit is small. Like a sprained ankle.
Profile Image for Sabrina Thompson.
198 reviews21 followers
December 8, 2017
This is the second book in the “Private Series” and should not be read as a standalone.
Ms. Neal did an amazing job writing this story. The natural progression of Wes and Brynley’s relationship was written with such ease and finesse. Somehow, Ms. Neal mad a billionaire seem relatable and likeable. I enjoyed seeing this side of Wes, vulnerable and neurotic. I also enjoyed seeing the softer, more insecure side of Brynley. Their journey in this book was often fraught with obstacle and hurdles; solidifying the mantra that true love, does in fact conquer all. You can’t help but root for these two. As always, Ms. Neal’s writing is easy to read but in depth at the same time. She writes with a clear beginning, middle and end in mind. The clip at which she writes, is fast paced but engaging. Never going too fast or too far ahead. Ms. Neal has a penchant for engaging readers right from the get-go. Her characters, even the side characters, are well developed and three dimensional. It is always a pleasure to read anything and everything from this author.
Profile Image for Cherryl.
2,159 reviews1 follower
December 10, 2017
What a life lesson story!

Now that Brynley drug Wes back to society and running his company in person, he has to learn those lessons of socializing we learn along the way. Wes isolated himself for 10 years after the death of his parents in an accident he blames on himself.
He has to share the love of his life with her career and her best friend. He also had to learn the hard lesson that his father was only a fallible human being and to incorporate the lessons from that.

Not only does he have to learn a lesson but so do other people around them that want revenge for something Wes had no part of. What one does to hurt others will turn around and bite you in the azz.

I love the way Xavier described what happened to Wes' father. The story of the king was well thought out and written. I also love how The Kensington family of Doctenn from the Duched series was included as well. This is going to make me go back and reread the series before "Personal" is published. Good job Xavier!
Profile Image for Jennifer Zamora.
324 reviews9 followers
December 15, 2017
This is definitely another hit by Xavier! I am constantly being reminded why I stalk her new releases. This one does not disappoint. First my not so perfect points.... There are a couple of little things in this book that hit me wrong. First I found this one to be a little predictable. For me at least. I found it to be a little odd that Calen plays front and center during 3/4 of the book then POOF vanishes. Almost no mention of him.
Now for the better points.
I love the real emotion and feelings you get from Xaviers characters. I often find myself getting very invested in their lives. For me if an author can make the story well enough that I find myself seeing it like a movie would play out, I am ecstatic. The story flows and connects in a way that is easy to read and therefore connect with. I also believe there are some very good life lessons to be learned here. Lean on loved ones anytime you need a little support. Dont take people for granted though. And dont take things at face value.
445 reviews4 followers
January 7, 2018
I received this book as an Arc in exchange for an honest review. Public is the continuation of Wes and Brynley's story. In the first book they fall in love and this book shows us how that relationship has grown. The book is aptly named because their relationship is public. They have to not only deal with friends, family, and co-workers opinions about their relationship but they also have to deal with the media and public opinion because of who he is. This part of the relationship is what causes issues in their relationship. I don't want to give too much away but let me tell you there is a major shakeup in Wes' world and he does not handle it well at all. As with the first book Brynley has a foul moth so be prepared for that. The sex scenes are super hot so also be prepared for that lol. If you loved Private you will love Public just as much. Don't miss out by not picking up this book!!!
Profile Image for Sherry Haynes.
1,230 reviews16 followers
December 8, 2017
Public is book two in the Private series. It is necessary to read this series in order to understand the past and the situations that make West Wilcox the way he is and why he responds to events the way he does. Where Private took us into the land of Beauty and the Beast, it doesn't touch on the beastly side until Public. Kudos to Xavier Neal for developing an adult version that keeps us turning the pages. Without giving away spoilers, I will say that just like in book one, the twists will shock you and make you want to strangle Wilcox in the way he handles things but know in the end, you will know it takes making mistakes to realize what you got.

Expect to find lies, deceit, loyalty, surprises and of course love in this dramatic page turning read.

Gifted a copy and writing a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Cheryl Carpenter.
316 reviews12 followers
November 1, 2024
The second book in the five book 'Private' series, we continue the relationship between Wes and Bryn.

Wes has been exposed to public scrutiny and someone wants to project him extremely unfavourably.

"Rumors regarding me, my family, my estate and my company all run rampant regardless of whatever official statements we make."

Brynn is as unapologetically loud mouthed as usual, and the Star Trek/Batman themed banter is extra strong in this book. As a Star Trek fan myself, even I can admit that not all of them are necessarily needed.

" " My apologies", Wes states at the same time he sits on the edge of my bed, facing me. "You're right." "I know. I'm basically the captain of the USS Righterprise." "

Apart from the slight overindulgence of nerdiness the story was good and the main characters evolved. I'm still invested enough to read further.
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews162 followers
December 8, 2017
Public (Private Book 2) by Xavier Neal is a wonderful read. This well written follow up to Private lets us return to Wes and Bryn and their continuing relationship. This couple is as enjoyable as ever. They have amazing chemistry that packs a powerful punch of heat. I also love the warmth and tenderness that they bring out in each other. It is so heartfelt and moving. The humor that is woven into this story ranges from causing sweet smiles to full laugh out loud chuckles. As Wes tries to live a more public life it exposes him, his company and his relationship with Bryn to the harsh and hot glare of the spotlight. Can they stand the heat or will going public ruin everything? Grab this book and book #1 to find out. I'm voluntarily reviewing an ARC copy of this book.
49 reviews5 followers
December 8, 2017
We continue our journey with Wes and Bryn. Bryn is as sassy and crass as ever. Wes is still our handsome, overprotective, but sensual man. While they are busy planning a wedding, expanding business, and looking into other ventures, Wes gets some news that literally turns his life and Bryn’s upside down. Will this public news make or break them? Will one of our favorite couples prevail? What’s love without a little heartbreak. We get to see some of our favorite characters from the series like Calen and JT, plus new players. This book will make you laugh, cringe, scream and cry. The moments between our beloved Wes and Bryn are amazing and shows that not everyone’s love story is perfect. If you enjoyed Private, pick up Public today!
Profile Image for Dawn.
266 reviews7 followers
December 22, 2017
The continuation of Wes and Bryn's story was everything that i hoped it would be and more. I love Bryn and her potty mouth and no filter attitude. I loved even more that Wes is coming out of his shell and is finally building up his confidence again.
But of course just when things are finally going well for these two they are put to the test again. Watching them learn to trust in each other and confide I each other and form a United impenetrable front against the people who want nothing more then to see them lose everything...including each other.
Leaning to deal with having a public life is proving to be hard enough, church when his private life suddenly becomes public Wes isn't sure he can handle the pressure or who he can trust anymore.
Profile Image for Ally.
253 reviews16 followers
December 12, 2017
A must read!

WOW! This was fantastic! Xavier Neal is a masterful storyteller with a sense of humor that keeps you laughing so hard, your sides hurt.
Wes, Brynley and JT are hilarious! I still say Brynley is a bit too crass at times but you can’t say she’s not living her truth! She’s definitely a breath of fresh air for Wes; she’s the yin to his yang! Wes and Brynley are the superheroes and JT is the ever loyal sidekick! The way they banter back and forth is classic!
I have my suspicions about Calen! Throughout the whole book I thought he was the mole! In a roundabout way he was but not knowingly. Still, I’ll reserve my opinion about him until the next book in the trilogy.
Profile Image for Cynthia Carpenter.
1,673 reviews15 followers
December 7, 2017
It's one year and Weston Wilcox is now in the Public eye. He's not really use to it. He is wary about everything that happened a year ago.when Bryn and him constantly in the news and information is getting leaked will they be able to hold on to their relationship. When certain secrets from the and some from the present get spilled and thinks spiral out of control. Will Wes be able to keep his self together or will he fall. Will Bryn be able to hold herself together or will everything she loves the most be lost.
These take a hold of you right from the beginning and keep you there till the end. The flow of the story is fantastic and all the characters pull at you one way or another.
Profile Image for Stephanie Christensen.
71 reviews2 followers
December 2, 2019
Omg anther great book!!! I didn’t realize how much I missed these 2! And I’m really hoping Jt get his own story!!

Wes still had his moments, I was so mad at him there for a bit. But brnley handled it like a champ, she handled it way better than I would of!

I love the banter between JT and brynley. I’m glad they have chemistry actually all the characters have chemistry with each other someway or anther and that’s what I love about Xavier no one gets left out!!

There’s a lot of twist and turns and a lot of are you kidding me moments, this book had be hooked from page one to the end!! I can’t wait for book 3!!
Profile Image for Alison Chewning.
732 reviews5 followers
December 8, 2017
Another good book in the series. It was good to catch up on Wes and Brynley. I enjoyed this book more than Private. Wes and Brynley's story was exciting since both of the characters had to endure a lot like being alone and together with their struggles in life. We get to see and follow up on Wes's family and how he survived with his scars that he had. Loved the chemistry between the two it was heartwarming and filled with much love from both of the characters.
** I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book **
Profile Image for Mariana Lee.
672 reviews18 followers
December 8, 2017
I love these two! Wes and Bryn are just amazing together, I love their power struggles in the relationship, the banter, their love for each other and how they learn to compromise and understand each others needs. They complement one another so well. Their journey is emotional, heartbreaking at times but it also has a lot of humour. Xavier’s is a wonderful author with the ability to suck you right into the story from the very beginning, her storylines are witty, interesting and captivating. This story will have you totally captivated and unable to put it down.
108 reviews2 followers
December 8, 2017
Brynley and Wes are back for another fun filled, exciting and loveable book. Bryn is just as sassy as ever. She couldn't get any better in my opinion she is the best part of these books! She keeps you laughing and crying from laughing. Wes still needs a little work in the public department. He is still grumpy as ever. He is slowly warming up though I can't wait to see what's next for his character development. I really loved this book. It kept you entertained and excited to find out the next part. Great book. 5 stars. 
Profile Image for Julia Gerard.
694 reviews9 followers
December 9, 2017
Public, book 2 in the Private series did not disappoint! Bryn has gotten Wes out of the gates of his sanctuary, and now the fun begins! As they build their new life, things start unraveling around them! An overly nasty reporter has a secret, that could destroy the happiness. But that is not the only secret being kept! Watching the melt down in this story was awesome! As usual our female is snappy on the comeback! Our Male is tortured, and has real demons that are handled tastefully! A definite must read!
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Profile Image for Sher.
98 reviews6 followers
December 9, 2017
Talk about a ride...this book was one. I was rooting for Wes and Bryn the whole time but did not expect the gossip lady to be the one to cause the drama. I wanted to reach in the book and smack her up. She was doing way too much to want what she wanted. Trick please, with an eye roll was my feelings at the end. But I was really happy to see the growth in both Wes and Bryn, although Wes took longer. I was surprised by Bryn as well. But these two belonged together because they really got each other. Now please find some lovin' for my J.T. He is so endearing.
Profile Image for Kelli.
583 reviews19 followers
December 11, 2019
Public by Xavier Neal is book two in the Private Series. A Romantic Suspense story, Wes, Brinley and J.T. are making us laugh and frustrating us to no end yet again. Brinley loves to be her independent, sassy self and Wes is really trying to tame her but alas failing at it. J.T is the best friend to both of them yet his loyality lies with Wes as we know.
You have to feel sorry for Brinley in the way that things come to light in this book. But you just wanna ring the neck of the ones who are manipulating things.
This book will make you laugh and make you really angry.
KLH
Profile Image for Tricia Mccoy.
288 reviews
December 17, 2019
Just as Good the Second Time...

Yes, this is the second time I have read the growing of Wes and Brynlee's story. With the ending of their journey finally coming I figured I should read through the first of their adventures since its been a year or so. And I am just as excited this time as I was last time about the next part of their story. Probably even more so since I know its days away and unknown lol. So its definitely a must read. If I read it twice then that should tell you its good enough to read at least once, right?!?
Profile Image for R.J. Nicolson.
Author 3 books32 followers
December 9, 2017
I didnt think the second book could beat the first but public is amazing and the story lines are full of suspense. Wes and Bryn face some tough times during this book and both have to find ways to overcome the obstacles infront of them. A few times i wanted to throw my kindle against the wall because of some of the characters but i always find the best books drive you to these extremes. Xavier neal is extremely talented and knows how to write something amazing better than 5 stars.
Profile Image for Cammyjoe.
1,429 reviews8 followers
December 18, 2017
Great!

I laughed so much reading this series. Sassy Brynley is so frickin funny and her smart mouth is out of this world. At one point I was ready to strangle Wes for the way he was treating Brynley. .. anyway, he finally get his crap together.
And,as for Monica,I am so glad she wasn't Wes's sister after all the shit she pulled and publicly. .. karma is a real bitch!
Can't wait for the 3rd book & meet "Little Thing "...
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