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The Discreet Duet #1

Hollywood Secret

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Will Baker was a jerk.
A chiseled, green-eyed, hypnotizingly delicious jerk.
And like a bad penny, he just kept showing up.

Crashed my bike? There he was.
Flat tire? One more time.
And yet he thought I was the one stalking him.
Seriously. How paranoid do you have to be?

But the more I got know my intense new neighbor, the more his hard shell cracked, revealing a soulful man starved for affection.
A man whose secrets were eating him alive.
Just like mine.

He was broken. I was broken.
But together we seemed whole.
Maybe, just maybe, we could fix each other.
If our secrets didn't break us first.

Author's Note
Hollywood Secret was originally published as Discreet, and now includes a BRAND NEW PREQUEL! This is a steamy, 120,000-word celebrity romance from USA Today bestselling author Nicole French

316 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 4, 2018

868 people are currently reading
1481 people want to read

About the author

Nicole French

46 books1,229 followers
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Nicole French is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She's also a hopeless romantic, low key fashion addict, and total bookworm.

Keep up with Nicole French and receive your FREE copy of one of her books when you subscribe to her newsletter: bit.ly/NicoleFrenchNewsletter

When not writing, she is hanging out with her family, playing soccer with the rest of the thirty-plus crowd in Seattle, or going on dates with her husband. In her spare time, she likes to go running or practice the piano, but never seems to do either one of these things as much as she should.

www.nicolefrenchromance.com

Follow her on Facebook for weekly snippets and other news about her newest projects:

www.facebook.com/authornicolefrench

Other social media links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nfrenchauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornicol...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nfrenchauthor/

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 186 reviews
Profile Image for Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) .
2,822 reviews116 followers
September 23, 2018
I’ve gone over and over and over again on how to start this review and each time I scrap it and rewrite it because there’s so much I want to say and yet so much I don’t want to say because the thing with these two and their story is that less is more! The less I tell you, the less you know THE MORE you will enjoy this read when you start it!

I can say that both characters have deep secrets that once released pose enough danger to take down everyone and anyone in their path! Both Will and Maggie have to be stronger than they feel they are to face their demons and it’s not till they are together that they realize they can conquer what fills them with fear, but for how long will that feeling last when the demons are released and knocking on the door?

Maggie is meek! She takes is all in and has learned how to navigate the life she has been given. She’s quiet, and does what is necessary to survive!
Will, oh sweetness Will is the complete opposite of meek! He’s broody, tough and an outright bastard! yet these two bring out something from the other that no one has ever been able to bring out! Together Maggie finds the fire she has burning within, Will finds a sense of peace that he’s NEVER had before! Their push and pull just had you salivating and wanting more! When they finally combust with passion you the reader feel it in your soul! Gosh I wanted so badly, so many times to just jump in the pages and kiss the hell out of Will ( yup no shame here lol)

I highly recommend this beautiful book to anyone who loves romance! Point blank if you’re a lover of life, love and all the butterflies that come with amazing experiences than read this book because it’s a read you won’t ever forget!
Profile Image for Danielle Spellbound Stories.
822 reviews417 followers
January 19, 2023
description

How do you describe a book that leaves you breathless? Is it merely entertaining? Engrossing? Phenomenal? I haven’t been able to employ any single word that accurately represents Discreet by Nicole French because it’s all of these things. In fact, I have agonized for some time trying to write a review for this story that could even remotely do it justice. After deleting more reviews that I can name, it was abundantly clear that I should leave the writing to Nicole French and just provide my thoughts on Discreet as best as I could. I questioned what made a book good vs great. It’s obvious that the criteria we use to gauge a book varies with each individual. The reader—or popular opinion—and literary experts often disagree on those books that we should take notice of. Yet, several points of fact that remain true regarding this question were consistent. These include: the quality of the writing, it’s relevance to society, and the importance of both a compelling plot as well as character progression. In my opinion, Discreet provides a perfect endorsement of each of these.

description

It’s undeniable that Nicole French is obviously educated – this fact is apparent as she eloquently writes stories that discuss nuances of society and the world stage intelligently while also discussing these issues within the context of her characters’ lives. And Discreet is one of several illustrations of Nicole French’s exceptional talents as an author. This enemies-to-lovers romance showcases how skillfully Nicole French plots her stories! Her characters do not simply meet, fall in love, fight off the metaphorical dragon and find their HEA. Oh no! The storyline of Discreet and its characters will keep you turning page after page until you’ve devoured the whole book… and you are beside yourself waiting to get your hands on the conclusion to this duet, Indiscreet. Nicole French’s writing is fluid, her characters compelling and the plot is the perfect storm for a host of intrigue, sizzle, and angst. The pacing is consistence and flawless in this romance. I have already read through Discreet a number of times and each time I find a new treasure within the story – something new to love about the plot or the characters – that just makes me want to read the book again. If you can read a story repeatedly—and it continues to hold your interest after it’s been thoroughly deconstructed—how can this not be an example of an exceptional book? Discreet addresses complex character issues that are relatable and relevant. It then goes on to offer solutions that show character depth and growth. Examples of this include Maggie’s identity crisis as it relates to both race and her mother’s alcoholism and Will’s debilitating anxiety issues. The story endears readers to Maggie quickly as it’s her POV that we read from. Maggie is a heroine that is easy to identify with. Will is my favorite brand of book boyfriend, he’s an asshole with a soft side for his leading lady. And since this is a romance, we have to address the chemistry of the hero and heroine. Will and Maggie are unquestionably combustible together. The heat of this story will absolutely leave you needing fresh panties or batteries. 😉

description

I have read and loved all of Nicole French’s words and I feel like she is an amazing storyteller. Discreet is only one example of this fact. Nicole’s writing simultaneously grabs my attention and made me think. And while I don’t feel that this review even remotely depicts how truly amazing Discreet is, I did work tirelessly to convey my love of the story and characters while remaining vague to ensure no plot spoilers. Discreet may not be ‘the book’ for all readers. However, if you love romances where the sexy and angst go hand-in-hand and where the characters achieve a richly deserved HEA, Discreet will undoubtedly provide you with the same endless entertainment I found within the pages of this book. I fell completely head-over-heels for Will (#WillisMine!) and felt tremendous pride in Maggie’s character growth. I was deeply invested in the outcome of the story and the happiness of its characters—a fact that speaks to how compelling the journey was and the author’s skill with connecting her readers and the character. If I could offer Discreet more than five stars, I absolutely would. And I implore you to get your hands on this book immediately – find out why I am so obsessed with Discreet and Nicole French. You won’t be sorry!


description

description
Profile Image for Tianna✸loves books✸.
1,084 reviews
October 4, 2018
The h is back in her hometown. She just lost her music career. Mostly because of her psycho ex. Now she is back to her alcoholic mom, planning to open a B&B.

“My name is Maggie Sharp. I used to be a waitress-slash-musician. I was out in New York for a while trying to break into the industry, but I fail—I just got burned out of being a starving artist. And when my mom’s life fell apart, she needed some help getting her shit back together, so I decided to come home and help us both recalibrate and figure out our lives.”


H, a famous actor, is hiding in the same town. He faked his own death and now living a solitary life.

H and h keeps meeting accidentally, where the h always ends up in his property and he saves her. They bond and fuck.


One day when the h asks the H about a letter she accidentally found in his house.
His reaction,
“Let’s get something straight. Even if I wanted to share anything about myself with you—which I fucking don’t—I would do it myself. We’re not together, Maggie. We’re almost friends, and not even that, and the only difference now is that we’ve fucked. But I could have get off with a hundred other women, any night of the week, so don’t think for a second that giving it up like free donuts after church makes you special to me. You got that?”

He literally drives her out of his house and adds,

“Go take care of your drunk of a mother, and stay the fuck away from me.”


Later he did apologise but it didn’t matter.
He was MEAN and CRUEL and ABUSIVE. I hate such guys who verbally abuses you on your weakness and later apologise.

This book was boring as hell. I skimmed through. I fell ZERO chemistry between them. H is downright asshole. He goes all caveman over her and then ignore her. She forgives him quickly.

H is crazy and psycho. I wonder why is the h making the same mistake twice. Her psycho ex is already stalking her. Now she has this new psycho. Great.

This book ends with a cliffy. I don’t think I will read the next book.
Profile Image for Leslie.
Author 35 books1,457 followers
September 30, 2018
Discreet by Nicole French is an epic, gut-wrenching journey of two broken souls. Beautiful, emotional, sexy, and full of life. Buy it. Read it. Fall in love. Can’t wait for the rest!!
Profile Image for Nadine.
1,044 reviews124 followers
October 4, 2018
4.5 stars

"And here I was, flickering like a live fire under the gaze of some weird mountain hermit with a sharp temper, crazy hair, and a beard like Gandalf."

After finishing this book I just thought I need some time to gather my mind for writing this review. Because my mind and my thoughts were all over the place. But now sitting here the day after, trying to get into words how Discreet made me feel: I still have no idea how to describe this properly.

"Sometimes you don't know you wanted something until you have it. Sometimes you don't know you need something until it's there."

Discreet is written only in Maggie's POV. I'm a total sucker for dual POVs so I missed Will's POV here. But Nicole did well in showing us Will through Maggie's eyes. And oh my god did I fall for him. Will is this special man with a mystic aura, who radiates a self confidence that keeps drawing you into his space like a magnet. Will is the chocolate to my craving for sweets. He's alpha where he needs to be and a lovingly caring on other occasions. He's a chosen loner on his own terms for his own reasons.

"He kissed me like I was the key to his survival. Or maybe like he was the key to mine."

Maggie is such a lovable character. But her whole live she got either limited to her parentage or to the boys/men she was together with. She never was really free or felt like she could be herself. Her dream to become a singer/songwriter got crashed through her horrible last relationship. No wonder she's pretty self-conscious and hides wherever she can. But she's different with Will, because he's different with her. Together they are better versions of themselves.

"I stared for a moment, feeling more than ever as if Will were some kind of wild animal, desperate to be tamed, but terrified of being trapped."

Maggie and Will hit it off right after their first encounter. It was quite obvious how affected they where by the other. Every of their encounters left me either smiling or panting. Their connection is something that just keeps your eyes glued to the pages. Even though we as reader know who Will really is and that shit will hit the fan soon enough, it was great getting to know Will only through Maggie's POV.

"With Will, I was my purest song, a voice that sang much more than a simple melody."

I really enjoyed reading Discreet and again the author could show off her talent in writing perfect couples with fantastic harmony, created of wonderful words as well as easy lovable and unforgettable characters. Discreet captures your attention from the first page to the last with hot chemistry and great character development.
Profile Image for Book Snob Sue.
1,414 reviews136 followers
July 21, 2024
I won this book...I know, I know, be jealous my reading peeps. This is my first book from this author and what a great first book to read. Will aka Fitz is living a very isolated life, due to anxiety and wanting to leave his old Hollywood life behind. He was a bit hot and cold, but the more I found out, the more I could understand it. He was a handful, but totally worth it. By his description, I’m thinking Charlie Hunnam look alike….so...totally worth it. And he can grovel like nobody’s business. Maggie aka Lily Pad came back home, a musician escaping a life of a crazy ex and stage fright. She is such a sweetheart and I truly thought she was so tough for enduring so much from everyone around her, including her mom and the town she grew up in. Her mom, there are no review appropriate words for her or some of the town’s people where she grew up, because of her moms alcoholic ways and Maggie’s ethnic background. Some of these people were always making underhanded racial remarks and it just ticked me off, because nobody deserves that crap and Maggie was such a sweetheart and did not deserve the crap she dealt with. Those people could all suck it in my opinion. Those people, sheesh, they were not my favorite, but they really helped her when she needed it. These two and their passion...whew so much passion, they were scorching hot af. For me this is a story of two people that are broken and truly need each other, in a way that I don’t think many people could understand. Their passion just pulls you in and you feel like you are a part of their story. This was an amazing book and I am so impressed with the author and her ability to write this incredible story.

This was a safe read, with a shit ton of baby batter and scorching hot af chemistry (psst, you may want to read this one at home...in private, you’re welcome). No ow drama, a little om drama, her high school sweetheart still wants her back, but she and Will are not having it. A moody, handful of an alpha that really does have a big heart, an expert groveller, a Charlie Hunnam look alike (my opinion) and totally worth it. He’s already taken, I was already informed, so no hero hoarding for me. A sweet and tough female that just has crappy people surrounding her, trying to bring her down. Some of the underhanded slurs and her Mom’s alcohol nastiness could be a trigger for some. This is book 1 of a duet...damn it, I know, *grabby hands* for book 2...need it nowish. Thank you Nicole French for letting me read this book and be apart of this wonderful book world you created.
Profile Image for Johnaka- Amity Book Blog.
1,158 reviews16 followers
September 23, 2018
Discreet: The Discreet Duet: Part 1 by Nicole French
“Can you be discreet? 5 stars”

Maggie is coming home after being away for several years. She tried to make it big, almost did but put herself in jeopardy in the process. Now she’s home to lick her wounds and reset. What Maggie didn’t count on was her ex making a play for her, or to meet the mysterious man across the lake who calls to her. Who will she choose?
Will has lived an isolated life for the last couple of years. He has no intentions of straying from that life style, until Maggie stumbles into his life. At first Will questions her intentions and then slowly he realizes she’s the real deal for him. He can’t stay away from her but when his past comes to light will she give push him away?
I’ve never read French before and I usually hate duets but Discreet pulled me in. French wove a story around me that made me feel what the characters were feeling. I was ticked when they were, and I was falling in love right along side of them. It was marvelous. I cannot wait to see what French has in store for us in book 2. I just hope Maggie ends up with the right guy, but only time will tell.
Plot-5/5
Characters-5/5
Heat-5/5
Writing style-5/5
Overall-5/5
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
September 24, 2018
5+ stars
Discreet is one of those books you don't forget, the story and characters will stay with you long after you finish the final page. It captured my attention and my heart in a really special way.

The character development in this novel is top notch. I quickly became invested in these characters. The reader learns early on the secrets Will and Maggie are hiding, yet they slowly open to each other. Trust is not something that comes easily for these two. The emotions Maggie and Will are experiencing separately, and as a couple, grow along with the tension, frustration, lust and love.

I don't want to give away too much of the storyline, and reading an overview won't prepare you for all the feels you experience when reading this anyway. The flow and pace of Discreet is perfect for this genre. I enjoyed the depth of the story that the author was able to achieve.

I read Discreet in one sitting and the thought of having to wait for the second book in this duet, Indiscreet, is making me anxious. I want to see how this pair navigates the remainder of their journey. Luckily I don't have to wait too long, as book two is due for release in a few weeks.
Profile Image for Desirae (Dee).
1,074 reviews59 followers
October 5, 2018
Oh Will and Maggie. ooooooooooooooooh WILLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL and Maggggggggggggggieeeeeeeeeee.

These two. These two deliciously scarred souls . These two puzzle pieces that have never met someone who fits better. These two. What shall we do with them ? There was so much about these two that I absolutely loved. From the secrecy of who Will really was for so long, but yet Maggie is so drawn to him. She may be one of the very very few who really gets to know Will for who he is personally, not publicly. Not that she really knew. But, if we're really honest when reading this..it took Maggie a while, and it was only little by little, that she really showed Will who she was. What happened to her. Where she grew up. How she grew up. What she was running from, etc. And it was like a firecracker. Once these two started to open up and peel back the layer...THE SPARKS WERE IGNITED.

and since we have fireworks, you know what else we have???? JEALOUSY. from everywhere . And honestly, I think some of it was even from her mom. She may not have outright said it, but her actions said more than anything .

Speaking of mom...can we discuss her battle with the disease ? Because, let's be honest here. That' what it is. And it's not something that, in reality, ever affects just the person drinking, does it? Addiction always affects every one closest to you. And Nicole did an amazing job of bringing that reality to the forefront in the most honest of ways. Showing how it not only can tear down the addicted, but those closest to them. how they battle, not with the addiction, but with the aftermath. also, with making decisions to ensure they don't ever follow the same path. I feel like with Nicole's writing she does this a lot. She finds a topic that is so realistic, something people battle with all the time, and she incorporates it into her stories in the most realistic of ways.

And as always, we have our villains. He who shall not be named, Lindsay, and to me... her mom. As much as I hate to say it, in an odd way, she was a villain to me. Hate me later LOL. I don't really want to touch on Theo.. I feel like if I get started, I will never stop. Kind of like how he never stopped texting her. Flower my ass... I flower you buddy. As you can tell, I have deep seated anger toward this character...DEEP...SEATED...ANGER

But for real. Can we discuss her pet name? i swear every single time he used it, even if it was after he was an ass, i just melted. I love pet names. and not just babe, sweetheart or stuff like that . But a true pet name, where only you and the other person know the significance of the name... gah. Straight to the feels for me! And I'm gonna be honest here. There are times Will is an ass. Most of it uncalled for. Did i understand why? yup. Did I like it? Absolutely not. Since we're sticking with how I really felt, I kind of felt like she forgave him so quickly each time. But.. I'm hardheaded. I wanna see you work for it. But... technically Will did work. shirtless.... you're welcome . With that being said, he is a jerk, a lot. But.. when he's Will. When he's here Will. When he's not in his head and stressing and worrying, and he's hers... ladies, he's HERS. And you. will. melt.

Now, by reading the synopsis you may have picked up that this is a duet. What do I hate? Cliffhangers. You know, I've discussed this before. They kill me. Partly because there's a right way to do them, but also because I have NO PATIENCE. So... warning..this one has a bit of a cliffhanger. A jaw dropper really. A reality check. Because, nothing can stay hidden forever.

Fellow book lovers... I CAN'T WAIT FOR YOU TO READ THIS AND TELL ME YOUR THOUGHTS!
Profile Image for Kelly G (Now Accepting Book Boyfriend Applications).
1,110 reviews87 followers
October 4, 2018
Wow! This story has me on the edge of my seat! And now I have to wait for the next part! What the heck is going to happen next?!?! I totally understand how Maggie feels! Being raised by an alcoholic, she just wanted to get away and see who she could be if she wasn't having to take care of her mother. She just wanted to be loved! So she found herself with yet another abuser. Will really was driving me a little crazy with his back and forth actions. They have a very intense connection. The way she handles his mood swings is masterful! She doesn't take his crap and even dishes some right back to him! I can't wait to read more about these 2. I'm totally on edge about what will happen with Theo!!! I absolutely recommend everyone One-click this book now!!! I've been waiting for this story for a while and it's been worth every single second I had to wait for it.
779 reviews16 followers
September 27, 2018
I couldn’t put this book down!! I’m obsessed!! I need Indiscreet NOW!! Ok, let me start with how much I love that Maggie’s heritage is unknown. It makes the story much more inclusive and showcases the reality so many people go through because of the color of their skin. I love that she is unafraid to work hard and that she is so caring.
It did bother me that she lets her friends and mom talk her down and she really doesn’t fight them. But I totally understand the reason she’s portrayed as self conscious and feels all the guilt in the world. Her childhood is heartbreaking, add to that her horrible relationship with Theo the poor girl has not been able to catch a break and feel worthy. I hate her mom. Yes, Ellie needs to get her act together and I’m REALLY hoping Maggie realizes that and pushes her to be a better mom. Her abuse has got to stop! I am really looking forward to see Maggie’s confidence grow and get the courage to confront Ellie.

Will...poor thing. If he needs to hide I’ll be more than happy to keep him hidden in my house..LOL..
I have so many questions! I need answers! I have to admit that the push and pull was frustrating but Nicole has this way of capturing my attention that everytime I felt frustrated, I just needed to keep reading! I finished this book in one seating. I love Will’s effort to be “normal” but my heart goes out to him too. Anxiety and panic attacks are a disease and it’s another issue that Nicole addresses in this book.

I feel like this story, being a romance and all, still addresses many real life actual problems and issues we face in our society. So I applaud Nicole for writing not only romance, but creating awareness of these issues as well.
Profile Image for AJ.
3,242 reviews1,070 followers
October 10, 2018
4.5 stars

I loved this book! An emotional, dramatic love story between a girl who has survived tragedy and is searching for her way, and a broken man who is hiding from the world. It’s my first read by Nicole French, and I loved her writing as she sucked me straight into Maggie and Will’s story, and I couldn’t put this book down!

Maggie moved from her small home town to New York City with dreams of a career in music, but it all went horribly wrong and she was left emotionally scarred and understandably terrified. She is now back home in the town that never really accepted her, with the aim of rebuilding her life and caring for her alcoholic mother. She is slowly and quietly trying to find her way back to herself, but while doing that she repeatedly runs into a bearded, shaggy-haired, yeti-looking man who is gruff, broody and immensely rude. Sure, he comes to her rescue a couple of times, but he’s a complete ass about it. But Maggie can’t help but be intrigued and she pushes to engage him - a move that pays off when he responds to her - and something begins to develop.

“You make me feel…” Will started. “Out of control.”
I couldn’t move. “Oh.”
“Like I actually have to care about what someone else thinks. Like I’m not alone anymore … And for the first time in a very long time, I feel like I don’t want to be.”

What Maggie doesn’t know is that Will is actually Fitzwilliam ‘Fitz’ Baker – former child star turned huge Hollywood star, believed by the world to be dead. For four years Will has lived in isolation by the lake, interacting with nobody and literally hiding from the world, and that’s just the way he wants it. Until Maggie comes along.

Sometimes you don’t know you wanted something until you have it. Sometimes you don’t know you need something until it’s there.

This is not a neat and tidy romance. Will has demons, and they are fierce. It’s not easy, but everything between them is natural, their feelings growing and shifting without any effort. It’s just that neither of them are expecting it, and Will in particular has no idea how to handle it. He makes mistakes – big ones – and they have a rough time with it, but there’s no denying their chemistry.

“I should have always stayed away from you, Maggie. But we’re here now, aren’t we? I’m in way, way too deep, too tangled up … I couldn’t’ stay away from you if I tried.”

Even with its heartache and angsty moments, this romance completely captured my heart. It has a sense of innocence about it as they both feel things to a depth they haven’t experienced before, and the intensity of everything between them and the passion that they have for each other is steamy, swoony and just gorgeous!

“I’m not here to save you, Will.” I stilled my movements, tipping his chin forward so he had to look at me. “Do you understand me?”
His eyes opened, deeper than the waters around us. One hand slipped up my body to cup my face, and then he kissed me with impossible tenderness as the other hand pressed my hips down, forcing me to take him fully. I arched my back as he filled me, all my lonely spaces, in ways that only he could.
“I know,” he said against my lips, my throat, my cheeks, my eyes. His low voice touched some frequency that spoke to me and only me. “But you make me want to save myself.”

I loved Maggie. She’s been through so much, and she hasn’t escaped unscathed, but she is bravely pulling her life together, facing up to her past and trying her best to move forward, and I really admire that about her. The book is written entirely from her POV, and while I love a dual POV book, I love the sense of mystery that we get while trying to figure out just what is going on in Will’s head while he and Maggie are first battling it out, and then falling for each other. It adds to the intensity of the story, and I’m looking forward to learning more about Will in the next book.

Throughout the whole book while we are falling in love with these characters there is this sense of anticipation tingling in the background of the story as we wait for the fallout of Will’s and Maggie’s pasts to catch up to them in the present. They both have major things going on personally, and the story builds wonderfully to its inevitable ending that has me desperate to know where it’s all going to go from here.

We were the definition of misery loving company. But then I wondered if the combination of our two miseries could make something beautiful. Maybe it could create joy.

I loved this book. The writing is engaging and emotive, and the story completely sucked me in. It’s raw and it’s messy, but there’s so much emotion between these broken characters, I felt everything! I loved their story and can’t wait for more.

4.5 stars.


Profile Image for Harloe Rae.
Author 44 books6,237 followers
October 3, 2018
Once again, I find myself a bit speechless and a whole lot in love with this author’s writing. Nicole French raised the romantic bar with Discreet. From the slow build to the piping-hot chemistry, I couldn’t put this book down. Will and Maggie have run off with my heart. I honestly cannot wait for Indiscreet!
Profile Image for Up All Night With Books.
1,160 reviews44 followers
September 30, 2018
5 Discreet Stars
Review by Lisa
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog


Thank GOD this book is a duet and book 2 is coming out shortly!!! What an epic buildup for the duet! Discreet by Nicole French is amazing. The prologue is just WOW, what a way to start, then to jump right in and you don't stop till you close the the book. The story line, the chemistry between the characters, the writing style it is all so well done. There is so much to this story that I am afraid to give anything away.

There is so many situations that are intertwined and the secrets that are being hidden have the potential for a big explosion. That being said I CAN"T wait for the second book.

I loved the the fact that through all the situations that make up this book there is a side of funny banter, laughable situations that bring a lightness to this story.

The story line moved at a pace that sometimes you wanted to smack the characters and be like....what the !!!! BUT in the end it made this story that much more enjoyable.

Life is not perfect and sometimes you have to take it into your own hands. Fitz Baker is done with being trapped in his fame and goes into hiding at Newman Lake.

Maggie returns home after her failed attempt in NYC to make it in the music industry.

But what happens when their worlds collide? Chemistry, secrets, tension, secrets, connection, secrets, magnetic attraction, and even more secrets.

**ARC provided for an honest review**
Profile Image for Shannon.
345 reviews4 followers
September 23, 2018
This story is a definite must read, the suspense behind both Will and Maggie’s back stories and the push and pull of their relationship was a brilliant build up that kept me turning each and every page, I couldn’t get enough! I’m looking forward to reading the conclusion of what I can already tell is an amazing duet!!!
Profile Image for Kathy Coopmans.
Author 77 books2,690 followers
October 4, 2018
Discreet is a soul gripping tale. It about broke me. As a newbie to Nicole, her talent blew me away. This lady can tell a story.
Grab a copy and fall in love with these broken characters.
My favorite kind of book.
Kathy Coopmans
USA Today Bestselling Author
Owner of Panty Dropping Book Blog
Profile Image for Rachel Talavera.
677 reviews7 followers
September 23, 2018
This book ... holy smokes. I have come to expect amazing books from Nicole French and this book doesn’t disappoint. Will another strong relatable hero that I want to kiss and slap in the same breath. This book gutted me a couple times and the ending ughh. So without spoilers do yourself a favor and read this book. You won’t regret it. I loooooved this book cant wait for part 2.
Profile Image for Radd Reader.
1,002 reviews602 followers
January 7, 2019
Overview:
Fitz (29) & Maggie (26). Book 1 of 2. Told from Maggie's POV. Kind of insta love. Ends with a cliffhanger.

Will (aka Fitz):
Fitz is an actor who desperately wanted to escape his current life. So he did just that and found a sanctuary for himself where he avoided any type of interaction with people. The world thinks he died in a boating accident 4 years ago, so he has gone to great lengths to conceal his identity. As the story is told from Maggie’s POV, you don’t really get a lot of insight into what Will is dealing with. But it’s clear he is definitely fighting some demons.

”I stared for a moment, feeling more than ever as if Will were some kind of wild animal, desperate to be tamed, but terrified of being trapped.”

Maggie (aka Lily Pad):
Maggie is a struggling musician who has been in an abusive relationship for the last few years. While in NY she put her “well connected” ex in jail, was shattered from the fallout of all of that and bombed a music audition and is now running back to her hometown to find a safe haven and a place to heal and regroup. She doesn’t feel like people accept her for who she really is which makes her feel like she’s not “enough”. She’s angry at her alcoholic mother and hasn’t been back home since she gave her mom an ultimatum 6 years ago (the bottle or the daughter...her mom chose the bottle). She desperately misses playing music, but the hurt is too raw and is just another obstacle she needs to overcome.

Together:
Maggie makes Will connect to life again. He starts to care and doesn’t feel so alone when he’s with her. They are both broken in many ways and there was something about them that made me feel like two people that broken are just not good for each other. They become too dependent on each other. They were explosive together, but I’m not sure that’s what they need to heal. Regardless, of what i feel 😉, they feel they are better together and their relationship progressed really fast from “stay out of my life and leave me alone”, to “I desperately need you”. Together, they were both able to let go of some of their fears. But, Will is hiding his true identity from Maggie, so clearly the trust isn’t fully there yet.

Overall:
I got very tired of the focus being on the fact that Maggie was “browned skin”. So what? Move on already. Who cares what color her skin is. Argh. The “I Love You’s” came a bit fast as I thought they were still getting to know each other. There is a lot of build up about the texts from the ex, but nothing much came of it in this book. I’m guessing Book 2 will deal with that issue. The pace of the book was fine and moved along well. I’m not a huge fan of books that have only 1 POV because I never feel like I get to know the inner thoughts of the other character. So, unfortunately I feel like Will is a bit of a mystery to me. There is no OW/OM cheating. The big secret reveal came at the very end of the book. Although they have some steamy scenes, there’s something about Maggie and Will that I’m not sold on. Hopefully I can get on board with them in Book 2

Triggers: alcoholism, abuse (verbal, & physical), rape. The rape happened in the past, so it’s not descriptive present tense, but something Maggie mentions she had happen to her and the reason her ex is in jail.
 
Quotes:
“We were quite a pair. Yeti-locks and the pine needle bear.”

“Sometimes you don’t know you wanted something until you have it. Sometimes you don’t know you need something until it’s there.”

“You can’t cure an addict, Lil. They can only cure themselves.”

“You make me feel…like a dying man in the desert. And you’re the fresh spring, the oasis. The water for my parched fucking soul.” He shuddered, a movement that spread through his whole body. “But I’m terrified,” he whispered, “absolutely fucking terrified…that you’re just a mirage.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jolene St Germain Triggs.
762 reviews9 followers
September 27, 2018
Oh Will! This author sure loves to torture her heroes and heroines! I quickly fell for Will, his shy reluctance to let anyone in was so palpable and painful it triggered my mothering instinct and I just wanted to help him and fix everything for him. Its clear as we go though that Maggie is just the medicine he needs to soothe his troubled soul, but she is equally troubled, broken, reaching out for something to make her feel 'whole' as well. The author brings us in early enough we can see the bigger picture, pieces of their lives that broke them, hopefully they will get an equally rewarding conclusion, they have a firm foundation and I feel like this author is going to torment them a bit more before she lets them get the happiness they each deserve. I really love the whole tapestry she weaves with her words. She really puts you right in there so you really feel like you are there with them. Maggie is such a brave chick. I really admire her spunk and her self awareness. Not everyone has the ability to take themselves out of a situation to be able to see it objectively. I feel like Maggie has that in spades. I'm really excited to see the conclusion for these two! This is the reason Ms. French is one of my favorite one-click authors, the angsty goodness between these two is off the charts!
Profile Image for Crystal's Book World ~ Crystal Cordova.
1,782 reviews27 followers
September 24, 2018
Nicole French sure knows how to keep you on edge through and through with Discreet. Maggie is is a strong heroine for this story and she is perfect even through her flaws. "Will" is a whole lot of trouble. With a tortured soul that Will has, it was a slow burn for me. I struggled a bit to warm up to him. He was vicious. But as the story unwound, I finally understood. Again, Maggie shows strength when her world is barely staying together by a thread.

Discreet will give you the fire and passion. My brow was set as a "V" through the story. I could not stop scowling as I kept asking myself, could these character go through more. Next chapter, it would get worst. But the heart of it all has me giving a 5 star review. You cannot help but have all the feels when reading a Nicole French book. The dark will grip you but the love will set you free. Well that was what I was feeling until the very end! The cliff hanger has me wracking my brain. I have no idea how this will play out. I am on the edge with the unexpected texts that come into play. Wow! What a story. Discreet is a must read!

BRVW
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
September 27, 2018
The thing I absolutely love about this author is the complexity of her characters. It's never as simple as being broken or scarred or wanting to hide it's so much more. "Will" has hidden for years but starts giving pieces of himself to Maggie. Slowly but surely she gets to know him, well at least she thought. These two tell secrets and fears but nothing prepares them for the fall out. She's recovering from a relationship and career that tanked and took all that she had with it. Her self esteem which has taken a beating all of her life is truly in the toilet now. What is truth and what is the lie Maggie has no idea. All she knows is the man she gave her heart to and the one the media is screaming about can't possible be the same one. Now she will be more exposed than ever, how can she recover.

Yup this is a two book series. Yes there is a cliff hanger (be still my heart). Yes it takes all of this to get the story out and that is one thing this author can do, blow your mind with a story. She does it with a smile and nod and plenty of modesty but the girl has skills. The few books of hers that I have written have been emotional and all consuming and this one was no different. I can't wait to read the ending.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,171 reviews70 followers
September 30, 2018
Holy moly, did this book suck me in! From the very beginning, Maggie tugged on my heart because she’s so utterly lost and afraid. She meets a confusing man, Will, who is just as lost and possibly more afraid than she is, but he keeps running between the extremes of white hot and Siberian cold, so she’s not sure if she should give in and befriend the one person who makes her feel a spark. Eventually, she and Will become friends and lovers, even though she knows he’s hiding so much of himself from her. Once we finally think that they’ve gotten over the worst of the obstacles, Will’s secret is outed in a HUGE way. Maggie is blindsided by the truth and all I can wonder is, what will she do?

This does end in a cliffhanger, but I can guarantee that I’ll be waiting (im)patiently for the second part of this duet, especially since I finished this book in an afternoon. Yes, one. It’s really THAT good and grabs you from jump. After all, I have SO many questions that need answering. Who outed the secret (though I’ve got a pretty good idea)? Is Maggie’s past going to hurt her more? Is Will’s past going to shatter what’s left of her heart? I can’t wait to find out!
Profile Image for Clare Harrison.
1,074 reviews16 followers
October 1, 2018
What do Lily pad and goldilocks have in common but falling pine cones, and Newman Lake..

Can you hide from your true self? or will it eventually shine through like a beacon in the dark...

The past may not all be golden and rosy but can you ignore it or do you need to own it to move on...

A gripping action packed edge of your seat thrilling ride. I could see so many branches to this story that it began to look like a tree.

I loved the highs and the lows, the beard and the almost clean shaven, the dance in the night.

Will backer elusive hermit, half man half beast. Rugged, Grumpy and insensitive.

Margaret Sharp the broken winged songbird. Her confidence lost, her passion dwindling.

One so wild and free, the other so clumsy and accident prone not exactly a match made in heaven written down on paper but together the air crackles with intense need and desire. It was beautiful to witness.

I can't tell you how many times I tried to swipe for more of this.. how I almost threw my phone as I was left dangling. I need more. I want more. Hurry up the end of October!!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
28 reviews4 followers
October 1, 2018
5 stars that are anything but discreet for Discreet


Maggie & Will. I was worried they’d burn up my iPhone & Kindle… there’s a scene with candles that is precious, funny, heart-warming, hot as….., & Nicole French even brings in the term “Chiaroscuro” speaking of the light in the room as if Maggie (Lily Pad - best nickname ever) was looking at a Caravaggio painting. Look his work up, it’s totally worth it… but back to the book.

It had decent twists & turns, but the driving force behind my flipping the pages like crazy was the two stars, Lily Pad & her Adonis, Will. His stubbornness had me bent in laughter, her needling had me wincing for the poor fella. But their love for each other, it bloomed and blossomed and made me feel warm all over.

This was my kind of romance… you know, aside from the cliffhanger… but fear not all, the second in the duet is coming very very soon.

This is most definitely a one-clicker.

Nicole French hit Discreet out of the park… now it’s time for us to get Indiscreet… I cannot wait!!!
Profile Image for Beyond The Covers Blog.
2,518 reviews91 followers
September 28, 2018
Discreet sucked me in an lead me on one wild ride of emotions. A beautifully written love story of two lost and broken souls running from their past and dealing with their demons. Together they find peace within themselves but when obstacles are thrown in their path, their relationship is tested many times. 

Will was a grouchy ahole at first but once Lily Pad entered into his life he slowly began to change. He revealed parts of his past that made you want to comfort him. He is keeping one deep, dark secret from his Lily Pad that could cost him his relationship.

Maggie was different when she and Will were together. She started showing strength and courage whereas when she was around her mother and so called friends she was weak.

Ghosts of Maggie's past are hiding in the shadows. What evil awaits here?

Discreet is a duet to Indescreet. It ends in a cliffy but soooo worth the wait. Fell inlove with Will and Maggie's story.
Profile Image for A.BookNerd.Bookseller&Bibliophile.Blog.
2,787 reviews107 followers
October 1, 2018
I love books where music is a big influence on the characters and Discreet is no exception. Will is a lost soul. He is mysterious and a loner. He doesn’t realize how lonely he is until he meets Maggie. They are both fighting their own demons and not being completely truthful with themselves or each other about their lives and feelings. Will helps Maggie find her love for music again while Maggie helps Will emerge from hiding and live again. This book is sad to know what happened in Will and Maggie’s pasts hat led them to hide but it’s also hopeful. There is hope that they will both get back to themselves, for Maggie to be able to lose herself in music again and for Will to find his place in the world again. I can’t wait for the second book in the duet to find out what happens to them!


Reviewed by: Alexis B.
Profile Image for Shades of Rebecca.
476 reviews69 followers
October 13, 2019
Nicole French once again proved she is the queen of secretive or mysterious even kind of romance. She totally slayed with the plot in Discreet!

This book tells the story of two characters - Maggie and Will. Maggie meets Will in her small hometown after unfortunate events in her life make her move back. She hasn't been home in ages when she meets Will. Man with a body of a god and more secrets than American government catches everyone's attention right in the first pages. Nobody knows him. Nobody has seen him. Mainly because he doesn't want to. But Maggie slowly gets under his skin and they form an unique bond.

The plot is hands down one of the best thought through. It builds gradually and absolutely pulls you in. I couldn't put the book down for even a second.

I truly wish I could give more than 5 stars! Amazing read and I'm already counting down days to the second book.
Profile Image for Megan.
217 reviews
November 8, 2023
My oh my...where do I begin?? This book was everything and more that I expected it to be!! I have never been disappointed by Nicole French before and I just knew that I wouldn't be this time. I was right. Here we have a story of two broken souls, per se, who find each other, are drawn to each other, and in turn find what they have both been ultimately looking for in life. If you are wanting a book that will tear you apart, bring you to your proverbial knees, and yet leave you wanting more, you NEED Discreet in your life!

Ms. French is one of my all time favorites because she really knows how to bring her characters to life and make them relatable. You will find yourself swooning, screaming, laughing, yelling, and falling in love and you won't even care that it is "just words on a page" because you will feel your way through the story in such a way that you will have actually lived it.
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