My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

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.

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. 😉

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!

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