Secrets, suspense, action and happiness for now. I enjoyed the friendship between Claire and Zoey, they are very supportive of one another and have forthright and comical banter. I admire Claire for wanting to make a change. The romance was a slow burn but still enjoyable, when the switch flipped, about half way through, to dealing with her past it became more of a thriller. I would have liked for the two tropes to co-mingle in a more smooth/balanced way since Luke and Claire's relationship was so new but Luke and the crew are in for the long haul. 3 1/2*

This was a good book and it kept me entertained and I really liked the setting. The town in the book is not too far from me and I have spent time there so it felt like reading about friends.
I just reviewed Thinly Veiled by Eliza Modiste. #ThinlyVeiled #NetGalley
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This book is a wonderful combination of romantic comedy and suspense! It centers around Claire Branson and her move to Salem to start fresh and escape her criminal background. Shortly after her move, she meets Luke, and the challenge to keep her past in the past quickly catches up to her.

I loved the way the author wove suspense and romance together. I do think there were some inconsistencies with the plot and it could have used a little more development, but overall this was a fun read!

This was such a cute book! This was the first book I've read from this author and I really enjoyed it. The story was different from anything I've read recently and really captured my attention. It was so well written and the characters were fantastic.

This was a really cute book about trying to outrun your past and finding love and a simple life in the process.

This book is Eliza Modiste's debut novel and as much as a hate to say it, it reads as a first book. The plot and character development were there, unfortunately it was not as developed as you would hope. There was a lot of humor and some witty banter, but at times it read as trying too hard and following a script of what you think a romance should read as. There was a feel of almost Things We Never Got Over with the aspects of a thriller and I did enjoy that last 50 pages or so of the book. However, somehow in the almost 350 pages it felt rushed and nothing felt like it was given the time to develop. I think I would continue to read more in this series (books about other characters), but this was a book that I did struggle to finish. I hope this author is able to develop and find her stride because the ideas and story are definitely there.

Thank you, NetGalley for providing a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A fast paced read. Claire runs to Virginia to escape her past. She isn't expecting to meet Luke and then her last catches up with her. Some great side characters, particularly Zoey.
Looking forward to more books from this author.

Eliza Modiste writes an exciting, fast paced novel with a great balance of comedy, spice, and thrill. The plot holds attention easily, and the characters have distinct personalities that help the reader get and stay invested. The cadence of the conversations is unique and distinct, and helps create a clear picture.

Thinly Veiled by Eliza Modiste has written a suspenseful romance that holds its own. The story is well-written and keeps you reading, wanting to know how it all ends. As you read through the story, you go through a lot of different emotions as the character does. The characters are well-written and have difficulties in their relationship, which keeps the story moving forward. Modiste writes the scenes well and you can see all the scenes in your mind as you read the story. The plot twists make the story better and the quirkiness keeps the reader on their toes. This story is a splendid book for anyone to read and will enjoy. I recommend this for anyone that loves romance with some suspense mixed in.

This was such a suspense filled romance, I loved it so much! I felt for Claire as she tries to establish a new life for herself, and Luke who wants to just have his simple, sweet life gets into Claire’s world of drama. I loved Claire realizing her own strength and knowing she’s worthy of goodness and love in a life she can be proud of. And she & Luke have such a sweet relationship built on such sweet friendship. The suspense and intrigue and drama was off the charts (for me) in this book! I’m not used to romance with such high stakes drama but I loved it & was happy with the ending.
Thank you for the ARC!!!!

I was looking forward to this book, but I was disappointed with the style of writing: six swear words in the first five pages; on page 11 they are talking about the bartender: “take the stick out of your ass, replace it with his cock” (not the last time for a comment like this), and countless times the use of the F-word. It got to me to the point that the style of writing annoyed me, and I didn’t enjoy reading the book anymore. I don’t like foul language and this book had so much of it, I think it is poor writing to stoop to that level. I want a book that is fun, has meaningful storylines and dialogues and that make me laugh.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

She ran away from her past.

I became so engrossed in this story that I forgot to keep track of time. The friendship between the two girls is so real. They get jobs, they meet people, life is good. Then the plot thickens with the bad ex from the past. What damage will he do to the fragile relationships just beginning to blossom.

The characters were fleshed out nicely. The main plot line was intriguing and the side storyline melded into the story very well. I enjoyed the wit and humor and insight each character displayed. The story was easy to follow and interesting enough to keep you reading. Although the outcome was predictable, it was still an enjoyable read. Great book for a day at the beach or while sitting on the porch with a glass of wine.

A masterfully crafted romantic comedy suspense novel that will leave readers breathless. The story revolves around Claire Branson, a woman with a criminal past, who has recently moved to Salem, Virginia, hoping to start afresh. There she meets Luke Turner, a charming and innocent man who quickly captures her heart. However, as Claire's past threatens to catch up with her, their love is put to the test.

The author's writing style is impeccable, with vivid descriptions that bring the characters and setting to life. The plot is expertly woven, with twists and turns that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The romance between Claire and Luke is sweet and heartwarming, while the suspenseful elements are gripping and intense. Overall, "Thinly Veiled" is a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating and entertaining novel.

Okay let me first start off with I misread the description of the book so when it was revealed she had a criminal past I was like bro???
Overall, good book. Definitely some plot holes. Like how Zoey is really upset when all he stuff is going down and Claire is like whats wrong and Zoey gets all defensive and then says they will talk about it later. That is never explained. There were several other times there were inconsistencies. But the characters were okay. I never really understood Liam's purpose past when Claire rejects him. But it was definitely a fun read!

A rollercoaster ride of romance and danger that will leave readers begging for more.

This book is a perfect blend of romance and suspense, with a gripping storyline that will keep readers hooked from start to finish. The characters are relatable and likable, and their chemistry is palpable. The writing style is smooth and easy to follow, making this book a great choice for anyone who wants to lose themselves in a thrilling and entertaining story. "Thinly Veiled" is a must-read for fans of romantic comedies and suspense novels alike.

I felt the characters were one dimensional and boring. The plot was basic AF. I hated the cheesiness and awkward banter that made no sense.

Sounded an interesting concept but unfortunately I could not read the arc. I will wait for revisions to be corrected and then do my review and score accurately.

What a unique concept for a book. I’m so interested to read this and acquire it for our branch. I love the idea of someone being able to escape and create a new healthier life for themselves. I can’t wait to read Claire’s story and Luke and see if they get their happily ever after.