Unfortunately I have tried to read and review this novel multiple times. I keep getting to about 15-20% and just want to put it down. I don’t feel appropriate rating due to not getting far enough in to form an opinion. I just don’t think it’s for me! My apologies!

This was cute, interesting, and definitely unique! The premise is interesting and keeps you guessing what will happen to Claire, all while you are falling in love with Luke! I enjoyed this immensely and think other readers will be delighted as well. I haven’t read a ton of romantic suspense and I definitely think it’s worth diving into.

This was a cute rom-com book! I really enjoyed it and read it in one sitting. I would definitely recommend this book.

So I finally got around to reading this book (and its sequel—review for that one to come) and I'm glad I did! It wasn't exactly what I was expecting when I dove in, but I was pleasantly surprised by all the content and suspense. A lot of the readers that come into my store are really into romantic suspense, and I'm looking forward to recommending this series to them!

Thinly Veiled by Eliza Modiste is a thrilling romance novel that follows the story of Claire Branson, a woman who has recently escaped her criminal past and ex-boyfriend by moving to Salem, Virginia. She wants nothing more than a simple life, and Luke Turner seems to be the perfect candidate for simplicity. He is sexy, sweet, and innocent, and Claire finds herself drawn to him.

However, as Claire's past continues to haunt her, she wonders if Luke can keep his innocence in the face of her dark secrets. The tension between the two characters builds as the story progresses, and readers will find themselves invested in the outcome of their relationship.

The writing in Thinly Veiled is gripping and engaging, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps you hooked until the very end. The chemistry between Claire and Luke is palpable, and the author does an excellent job of building their relationship while also exploring the complexities of Claire's past.

Overall, Thinly Veiled is a fantastic debut by Eliza Modiste, and I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a gripping romance novel with a touch of suspense. It is a must-read for fans of the genre, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author in the future.

I did not finish this one, it was not for me, I couldn't relate to the characters, and just did not care for the story.

I loved the humor and the characters in this story. Fast paced and fun to read.
Many thanks to the author and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.

The story is well written, held my interest and was fun to read with its suspense, drama, villain and romance. I became so engrossed in this story that I lost all track of time. I always love a book that can pull me in like that. This book was actually funny so many books try and fail but not Eliza Modiste. The banter in this book felt real which made it easier to connect with the characters. I would highly recommend this book. I can't wait to see what else Eliza comes up with.




Thank you NetGalley and Eliza Modiste for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.

"Thinly Veiled" by Eliza Modiste presents a unique and intriguing premise that offers a fresh take on storytelling. While the book demonstrates creativity and potential, certain aspects prevent it from fully realizing its captivating concept.

Modiste introduces readers to a world where secrets and mysteries are woven into the very fabric of the narrative. The idea of a thinly veiled reality layered with hidden truths is undeniably captivating. The anticipation of uncovering these layers kept me engaged throughout the book. However, the execution of this concept could have been more polished to truly captivate the audience.

The writing style embraces a sense of enigma, which complements the book's theme well. Yet, there are moments where the prose becomes convoluted, making it challenging to follow the narrative. A clearer balance between intrigue and clarity would have improved the overall reading experience.

Character development is an area that could have been further explored. While the protagonists possess potential for depth, their growth is hindered by inconsistencies and unexplored facets. Fleshing out their personalities and motivations would have added authenticity to their actions and decisions.

Despite its shortcomings, "Thinly Veiled" manages to evoke a sense of curiosity and intrigue, leaving readers with the desire to see the story's potential realized. The book successfully delves into themes of hidden truths and the complexity of human nature, albeit with room for expansion.

In conclusion, "Thinly Veiled" showcases an inventive concept that piques interest, but it falls short of fully delivering on its promise. With improved execution, refined character development, and a more balanced narrative, this book has the potential to shine brighter. A three-star rating reflects its captivating premise and potential for growth. ⭐⭐⭐

Claire is running from her past when she meets Luke. He offers her a job and they become involved. When her past comes up to haunt her, Luke is there by her side.

An action packed book.

First and foremost a most sincere thanks to the publisher, Author Eliza Modiste, of course, Netgalley for providing an advanced reading copy of this book. I liked this book I would give it 3.8 stars it was a lovely romance that was sweet and heart warming. I enjoyed my time with this book and would def read again to visit the fun of this story again.

This book was fast-paced and enjoyable to read. While the storyline was more intense than I was anticipating, it definitely kept me interested. I loved the group of characters that we get to see grow throughout the storyline and adore Luke. We get to see so many different sides of him, and honestly, I wish we got a little more. Overall, a fun read that was very different from the majority of books I have read in this genre.

AGH! I was not expecting the anxiety with this story ... in a good way. I thought this was more of a fluffy romcom ... clearly I was surprised in the best way. Claire has her own past that she is trying to get away from so she moves to Salem, Virginia with her friend. It is there she meets Luke and the two seems to really hit it off. Then the past resurfaces.

Eliza Modiste wrote a masterpiece and I anticipate seeing this all over booktok sooner than later.

A feel good romcom, all characters were fun to read. The banter was very good, lots of laughs. the friendship between the MCs was good to read, and how it progressed. The bits with suspense/mystery were very intriguing.

Claire has had a tough life…Dad gone, Mom an addict and a jailed fraudster, To payback all of the money that her Mom stole before she was convicted and sent to prison (turned in by Claire), Claire and her POS boyfriend Colton steal, mule drugs and embezzle. Finally,,all the debt paid off and sick of her toxic relationship with Colton, Claire and her best friend Zoey move from North Carolina to Virginia to start over. Claire finds Luke, a bartender where she works and just as they start their relationship. Colton attempts to blackmail Claire into illegal activities again. Chaos ensues, shafts are fired and nobody will ever be the same.
I had a very difficult time connecting with these characters…their motivations or why they would act in a particular way didn’t resonate with me. If there are further books, maybe these characters will be revealed..

Thinly Veiled by Eliza Modiste, while big on humor, was a lot and not enough all at the same time.

Humor: 🤣🤣🤣
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Story: 📚📚📚
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Claire is running from her past and escapes across state lines with her bestie, Zoey, in tow. They each find a job and start to make friendly connections quickly. Claire works with hottie bartender, Luke, and the two hit it off. But a visit home for the holidays proves that Claire’s past can’t stay buried forever.

Ok so, this wasn’t my favorite book. There were a lot of fun tropes (which guy will she choose? and the sex-crazed roommate, and hot guys coming to the rescue) and lots of attempts at humor, but some things just didn’t land.

Let me preface this by saying I prefer books with swearing and sex—it makes a story more realistic IMO—but this one goes overboard. It felt like every other word was a curse and while strategically done it can be super funny, it felt like a crutch in this book. Same with the sex scenes. None of them were overtly over the top, but the sheer number of them made me thinking “ok, let’s get on with the story.” And that’s coming from someone who loves a smutty book.

The first half of the book went pretty slowly. It wasn’t until around 55% per my kindle’s count that a real plot began to emerge. And then it was WHAM off to the races.

There was a lot of witty banter between characters, but again sometimes it just went on and on (much like this review 🤦🏻‍♀️) and I just wanted to get to the meat of the story.

I loved Liam and James’ characters. They were great and well thought out. And the saucy scenes were well done and believable. I also enjoyed the random pop culture references that were included. But overall, I didn’t love this book.

Officially rating: 3.5

If you’re looking for a heroine who you can’t help but root for even though they keep making TERRIBLE decisions and a literal golden retriever love interest than this book is for you!

The main character Claire moves to Virginia to escape a mysterious ~something~ and ends up falling in love when she definitely isn’t supposed to but sometimes the right person comes when you least expect it and is everything you need.

We had some spice, achingly sweet dialogue between the main couple and the most fascinating friend group who you fall deeply in love with (plz can we have a book with Zoey as the main love interest, i don’t even care with which man! just give me Zoey)

Although there could have been more suspense and the final climax could have been a little more drawn out/complex- this was a very fun read and I would recommend it

A special thank you to Netgalley and Eliza Modiste for access to this wonderful book!

Claire tries to start a new life in Virginia after leaving behind her criminal ways. There she meets Luke, the sexy new bartender who offers her a job and becomes a large part of her life. Once she feels like she has it all; peace, love and friendship; her life goes spiraling when her past catches up to her.

Claire's sassy personality along with her smart mouthed best friend Zoey made this a hilarious read. Add in Luke's stubborn personality and this story was a whirlwind. This is a must read if you're looking for a feel good comedy!

I enjoyed this debut novel! It was a romantic suspense, which is becoming a new favorite sub-genre for me. It was surprising that this was a debut because it didn't read that way. I found myself hooked to the plot and characters from the beginning and antsy to figure out what would happen next! I hope this author continues to publish other titles and I will be waiting to see what she comes out with next!

This book was actually funny. Lots of books try to be funny and fail. But the banter in this book felt real which made you able to connect well with the characters. The storyline was good and fun.