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Keep Me Safe
Kira
Noah took me in without question when I needed somewhere to stay. He’s always been there for me—one of the only constants in my life.
He makes me feel safe.
Not to mention, I’ve had a crush on him since I was twelve.
There’s only one problem.
He’s my best friend’s dad.
Noah
She’s my son’s best friend.
I shouldn’t want her.
Especially not when I think he wants her too.
But she’s here now—under my roof and in my kitchen in the middle of the night wearing nothing but a big t-shirt.
Nothing can happen between us.
Noah took me in without question when I needed somewhere to stay. He’s always been there for me—one of the only constants in my life.
He makes me feel safe.
Not to mention, I’ve had a crush on him since I was twelve.
There’s only one problem.
He’s my best friend’s dad.
Noah
She’s my son’s best friend.
I shouldn’t want her.
Especially not when I think he wants her too.
But she’s here now—under my roof and in my kitchen in the middle of the night wearing nothing but a big t-shirt.
Nothing can happen between us.
- GenresRomance
325 pages, Paperback
Published March 28, 2025
125 people are currently reading
486 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
April 22, 2025
This book is very poorly written.
The age gap is borderline pedophilia with zero character growth. The plot lacks so much depth.
There's smut, not good smut, but smut.
Honestly, the author just leaves you unsatisfied with the story.
One minute the FMC meets a new girl and suddenly, "oh, we've hung out and are now besties" but the reader doesn't get ANY of that development. This is an example of the lack of storyline in the entire book that consistently leaves huge gaps.
I don't recommend, at all.
The age gap is borderline pedophilia with zero character growth. The plot lacks so much depth.
There's smut, not good smut, but smut.
Honestly, the author just leaves you unsatisfied with the story.
One minute the FMC meets a new girl and suddenly, "oh, we've hung out and are now besties" but the reader doesn't get ANY of that development. This is an example of the lack of storyline in the entire book that consistently leaves huge gaps.
I don't recommend, at all.
June 4, 2025
"Keep Me Safe" by Sarah Ellison is an emotional forbidden romance that explores the tension between desire and boundaries. With strong chemistry and heartfelt moments, it's a gripping read for fans of unconventional love stories
July 23, 2025
First 80% was 🔥🥵, last 20% had me rolling my eyes.
November 11, 2025
Best friends Dad
Forced proximity
Age gap
Dual narration - Audrey Obeyn & Hugo Locke
Great narration. Hugo Locke was new for me and I really like his voice and performance. This is my second book that Audrey Obeyn has narrated and I like her voice a lot.
Content warnings from the author:
An emotionally abusive parent - remembered
Victim blaming - remembered and on page
Sexual assault - remembered/shown on page, but not too graphic
A taboo age gap relationship
This was an emotional listen. Forbidden love.
Kira has just graduated and is now dealing with a rent increase that despite her efforts and job she can not afford. When her her best friend Jared offers her a room at his house with his dad Noah.
Noah is single and older so he definitely shouldn’t want his son’s best friend. Yet he can’t seem to keep away from her.
A good listen with tension, emotions, and spice.
I’d recommend to anyone who likes age gaps with a super sexy older man.
Forced proximity
Age gap
Dual narration - Audrey Obeyn & Hugo Locke
Great narration. Hugo Locke was new for me and I really like his voice and performance. This is my second book that Audrey Obeyn has narrated and I like her voice a lot.
Content warnings from the author:
An emotionally abusive parent - remembered
Victim blaming - remembered and on page
Sexual assault - remembered/shown on page, but not too graphic
A taboo age gap relationship
This was an emotional listen. Forbidden love.
Kira has just graduated and is now dealing with a rent increase that despite her efforts and job she can not afford. When her her best friend Jared offers her a room at his house with his dad Noah.
Noah is single and older so he definitely shouldn’t want his son’s best friend. Yet he can’t seem to keep away from her.
A good listen with tension, emotions, and spice.
I’d recommend to anyone who likes age gaps with a super sexy older man.
April 14, 2025
Pretty good read. I enjoyed the characters. However the writing style wasn’t my personal favorite. I felt like it was a bit jarring at times and would jump from one scene to the next pretty quick without a transition.
April 25, 2025
ARC read
I loved the writing and this was really easy To read. The story is about a girl who has a cruah on her Best friends dad. She ends up moving in with them and along the way she founds out that the dad (Noah) has feelings with her too. Shes afraid of the Boys her age and for a good reason.
I don’t think I can think of anything I didn't like
The plot was there. Predictable yes, but good and I couldn't stop reading. Love story - yes, spicy scenes - Yes! Some sad/tense moments - yes. There is something that makes me take one star away, but I cannot put a finger down on what it is tho 🤷🏻♀️
You have to read this!
I loved the writing and this was really easy To read. The story is about a girl who has a cruah on her Best friends dad. She ends up moving in with them and along the way she founds out that the dad (Noah) has feelings with her too. Shes afraid of the Boys her age and for a good reason.
I don’t think I can think of anything I didn't like
The plot was there. Predictable yes, but good and I couldn't stop reading. Love story - yes, spicy scenes - Yes! Some sad/tense moments - yes. There is something that makes me take one star away, but I cannot put a finger down on what it is tho 🤷🏻♀️
You have to read this!
August 18, 2025
DNF this book due to juvenile writing.
December 5, 2025
Keep Me Safe by Sarah Ellison is a deeply emotional and gripping forbidden romance that expertly explores the tension between desire and strict boundaries. Brought to life by the captivating narration of Audrey Obeyn and Hugo Locke, the story is an impactful addition to the age-gap, best friend's dad trope, delivering both high-heat spice and a substantive plot.
The central conflict revolves around Kira and Noah. Kira, who has harbored a crush on him since she was twelve, finds herself under Noah’s roof after needing somewhere to stay. Noah, the protective single father and her best friend’s dad, has always been a constant source of safety for her. Despite knowing he shouldn't want his son's best friend—especially when he suspects his son might also have feelings for her—Noah struggles with the undeniable attraction to the young woman now inhabiting his space.
The characters feel fresh, realistic, and incredibly relatable. Kira's journey of finding her strength and coming into herself, particularly after experiencing sexual assault, is handled with care and felt deeply relatable to some readers. Noah is a swoon-worthy hero, though his attempts to push Kira away provide a necessary layer of frustration and tension. The romance between them is marked by strong chemistry and heartfelt moments that will have readers feeling every emotion, from swooning to tearing up.
Beyond the romance, the book tackles the important theme of self-empowerment after trauma, focusing on the characters' individual growth and avoiding unhealthy codependency. The core message that truth holds power, even when disbelieved by authority or family, is particularly impactful. While some readers noted that the writing style could occasionally use refinement due to minor plot holes or abrupt transitions, the book's commitment to validating lived experiences and its satisfying, well-wrapped ending makes it a rewarding read. Keep Me Safe is highly recommended for fans of unconventional love stories seeking a starting point with both grit and heart.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The central conflict revolves around Kira and Noah. Kira, who has harbored a crush on him since she was twelve, finds herself under Noah’s roof after needing somewhere to stay. Noah, the protective single father and her best friend’s dad, has always been a constant source of safety for her. Despite knowing he shouldn't want his son's best friend—especially when he suspects his son might also have feelings for her—Noah struggles with the undeniable attraction to the young woman now inhabiting his space.
The characters feel fresh, realistic, and incredibly relatable. Kira's journey of finding her strength and coming into herself, particularly after experiencing sexual assault, is handled with care and felt deeply relatable to some readers. Noah is a swoon-worthy hero, though his attempts to push Kira away provide a necessary layer of frustration and tension. The romance between them is marked by strong chemistry and heartfelt moments that will have readers feeling every emotion, from swooning to tearing up.
Beyond the romance, the book tackles the important theme of self-empowerment after trauma, focusing on the characters' individual growth and avoiding unhealthy codependency. The core message that truth holds power, even when disbelieved by authority or family, is particularly impactful. While some readers noted that the writing style could occasionally use refinement due to minor plot holes or abrupt transitions, the book's commitment to validating lived experiences and its satisfying, well-wrapped ending makes it a rewarding read. Keep Me Safe is highly recommended for fans of unconventional love stories seeking a starting point with both grit and heart.
Disclaimer: I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 25, 2025
Honestly this is an IMMEDIATE add to my comfort book rotation…
It was spicy, but had a great storyline. There’s so many really good Age Gap, Best Friend’s Dad romances and this just got added to that list. The characters felt fresh, realistic, and relatable. Especially as a woman who’s been through SA, I really related to Kira (FMC) on such a deep level. Our MMC (Noah) was to die for!!
Keep Me Safe had me feeling ALL of the feelings. I was swooning and kicking my feet, I was frustrated at Noah when he was trying to push Kira away. I was tearing up when Kira found her strength and really started coming into herself. The ending was like the perfect little bow on top of the present that is the beautifully written book!
It was spicy, but had a great storyline. There’s so many really good Age Gap, Best Friend’s Dad romances and this just got added to that list. The characters felt fresh, realistic, and relatable. Especially as a woman who’s been through SA, I really related to Kira (FMC) on such a deep level. Our MMC (Noah) was to die for!!
Keep Me Safe had me feeling ALL of the feelings. I was swooning and kicking my feet, I was frustrated at Noah when he was trying to push Kira away. I was tearing up when Kira found her strength and really started coming into herself. The ending was like the perfect little bow on top of the present that is the beautifully written book!
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November 6, 2025I chose not to give this a rating because although the writing itself was good-it lacked the depth needed to be involved. For example-Jared is supposed to be Kira’s best friend. She tells him that his friend Jake tried to assault her and Jared’s response is to remain friends with him and invite Kira to hang out with Jake and friends. Noah being the older adult in the equation should have told Jared immediately when he and Kira started being romantically involved. Instead he is jealous and possessive of her. And lastly we don’t get to see a resolution with Zach, Kira’s rapist. For me personally all of that was disappointing because it had the bones to be a five star review. The chemistry was good but the rest fizzled
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2025
Keep Me Safe by Sarah Ellison is a quick read that tackles age-gap romance with a focus on self-empowerment after trauma. While the writing style and pacing could use refinement—plot holes and abrupt transitions sometimes pulled me out—the story’s core message of validating lived experiences stood out strongly. I appreciated that the characters invested in their own growth as much as in each other, avoiding unhealthy enmeshment often seen in romance novels. Despite underdeveloped aspects, the theme that truth holds power, even when disbelieved by authority or family, was impactful. I’d recommend this to readers new to taboo romance who want a starting point with both grit and heart.
November 26, 2025
Keep Me Safe is an amazing taboo, firefighter romance. Noah (MMC) is her best friend, Jared’s dad. And best friend’s dad!!!! Yes freaking please!! We have Audrey Obeyn & Hugo Locke were an amazing pair to bring Keep Me Safe. Kira (FMC) finds herself without a place to live when her landlord raises her rent. Jared calls his dad and Kira was invited to move in. And has Kira had a crush on Noah since he she was younger? You bet! There is a lot of trauma in Kira’s past and when Kira shares it with Noah it changes their relationship. There is a lot of sexual attraction that they are both trying hard to fight until they can’t. . The pace of the plot and the spice was just right.
March 30, 2025
I am happy to be chosen as an ARC for this book. It is a great love story. The book is engaging and draws you in. I finished it in a day. Kira a young girls haunted by a past whose best friend would do anything for her, yet she falls for another. And then there is Noah the Greek god of a man tale dark handsome… tattooed fire fighter and daddy of her best friend. This is a story of taking back your power after abuse and finding safety in another. This story powerful a definite must read! Spice level 2 out 5.
May 3, 2025
4 stars – Couldn’t put it down!
It’s been a long time since I finished a book in one sitting, but this book had me hooked. The suspense, the emotional tension, the slow-burn romance—it all just worked. I felt for the characters so much, especially with everything they’d been through.
There were a couple moments that were a little predictable, but honestly, I didn’t even care because I was too invested. If you’re in the mood for something fast-paced with all the feels, definitely give this one a shot!!
It’s been a long time since I finished a book in one sitting, but this book had me hooked. The suspense, the emotional tension, the slow-burn romance—it all just worked. I felt for the characters so much, especially with everything they’d been through.
There were a couple moments that were a little predictable, but honestly, I didn’t even care because I was too invested. If you’re in the mood for something fast-paced with all the feels, definitely give this one a shot!!
July 16, 2025
I picked up this book because I love supporting local Authors. I had no expectations going in. I found myself getting lost in the pages of this book. I started reading and three hours later I realized I was supposed to make dinner an hour ago. With that said, there were a couple characters that could have used some more development and a few places it seemed to skip. However, a barely noticed because the story was that good. I hope this isn’t her last book because I will forever be a fan. From one Michigan girl to another
November 18, 2025
If you love age-gap tension, forbidden longing, and that irresistible “best friend’s dad” energy, this one is a must-listen. Noah and Kira’s chemistry is electric from page one, built on years of closeness, quiet glances, and a whole lot of suppressed desire.
Audrey Obeyn & Hugo Locke deliver perfect dual narration—soft vulnerability meets mature, grounding heat—bringing every stolen moment to life.
A slow-burn that feels intimate, emotional, and deliciously taboo. Highly recommend for fans of son’s-best-friend/father dynamics and angsty, heart-gripping romance. ❤️
Audrey Obeyn & Hugo Locke deliver perfect dual narration—soft vulnerability meets mature, grounding heat—bringing every stolen moment to life.
A slow-burn that feels intimate, emotional, and deliciously taboo. Highly recommend for fans of son’s-best-friend/father dynamics and angsty, heart-gripping romance. ❤️
November 27, 2025
Keep Me Safe is a delightful age gap romance between Kira and Noah. Please read all content warnings before listening. Jared and Kira has pave been best friends for years. She now moves in with Jared and his dad, Noah due to a ridiculous rent increase on her apartment. Kira and Noah begin to grow closer and eventually fall in love. Can the relationship last? What about Jared?
The dual narration by Audrey Obeyn and Hugo Locke was phenomenal. They brought these characters to life beautifully. All of their emotions were clearly expressed in their voices. Hugo Locke had a sexy, sultry tone just for Kira. I highly recommend listening to this audiobook.
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 4 stars Narration 5 stars
The dual narration by Audrey Obeyn and Hugo Locke was phenomenal. They brought these characters to life beautifully. All of their emotions were clearly expressed in their voices. Hugo Locke had a sexy, sultry tone just for Kira. I highly recommend listening to this audiobook.
Thanks to the author and High Gravity Productions for this ALC.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Story 4 stars Narration 5 stars
December 30, 2025
Single dad, age gap, forbidden, slow burn, duel POV
This one didn’t do it for me personally. Definitely could be very triggering for some, so read into the warnings beforehand. I saw an ad for this that made me want to read it, but the part I saw was very minuscule in the actual story. So that was disappointing and it did lead me to believe this book was a little different than what it was. I feel like it was a little odd and went some ways I wasn’t expecting. I also feel like there wasn’t much character development. Overall, not my cup of tea.
This one didn’t do it for me personally. Definitely could be very triggering for some, so read into the warnings beforehand. I saw an ad for this that made me want to read it, but the part I saw was very minuscule in the actual story. So that was disappointing and it did lead me to believe this book was a little different than what it was. I feel like it was a little odd and went some ways I wasn’t expecting. I also feel like there wasn’t much character development. Overall, not my cup of tea.
March 31, 2025
DNF @50% during chapter 15
I found this book from the author on TikTok and decided to try a new author I will say it was easy to get into at the beginning- I could tell from the writing it was a new author and I liked it but,
Idk I couldn’t do it- normally age gaps aren’t a bother but an 18yr old w her best friends dad- not for me
Him calling her princess beforehand gave me the ick
I found this book from the author on TikTok and decided to try a new author I will say it was easy to get into at the beginning- I could tell from the writing it was a new author and I liked it but,
Idk I couldn’t do it- normally age gaps aren’t a bother but an 18yr old w her best friends dad- not for me
Him calling her princess beforehand gave me the ick
April 17, 2025
Overall, I liked the read. Age gap romances really are not something I enjoy as they just give me the ick... I can't get over the fact that she was just graduated from high school, her best friend was in love with her and she wants his dad and the dad wants her... maybe of she was like 26 and it was age gap I wouldn't have felt so weird about it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️
Like A Father 👨🚒 👩🎨
This is what I get when I randomly download a book before a long run and get too far in to DNF 😂 💀 This kind of age gap is a big fat no thank you from me 🤮
Kira + Noah
He’s her best friend’s dad, she literally grew up around him.
He’s going to piss off his son, but YOLO I guess.
Have you read this one yet? What did you think?
Like A Father 👨🚒 👩🎨
This is what I get when I randomly download a book before a long run and get too far in to DNF 😂 💀 This kind of age gap is a big fat no thank you from me 🤮
Kira + Noah
He’s her best friend’s dad, she literally grew up around him.
He’s going to piss off his son, but YOLO I guess.
Have you read this one yet? What did you think?
August 28, 2025
I wasn't 100% sure about this book initially because of the age gap, but I ended up loving it! I devoured the book in 4 hours. Sarah is great at describing a scene, as well as the different relationship dynamics between all of her characters. She covers sensitive topics well and gives you a satisfying ending! 4.5/5!
April 23, 2025
Kira holds such a special place in my heart, with her passion for ceramics I really felt myself in her and have never related more to character in a book. I really enjoyed it, but my only complaint is that most of the transitions in this book were jarring and would skip from one scene to the next.
May 22, 2025
This book as a whole was a good book I enjoyed Kira and her strength the spice was a good amount. I was just hoping for more with every page I was looking for something to jump out and be different but this is a good start for a first book ❤️
August 12, 2025
Steamy, forbidden, and full of tension. The best-friend’s-dad trope combined with the age gap made every interaction charged with anticipation. I loved the mix of heat, emotion, and just the right amount of danger it kept me hooked from start to finish.
August 19, 2025
First off, love reading a book from a fellow Michigan girlie!
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book was so good, love the taboo age gap, and the father son dynamics. Plus who doesn’t love a hot firefighter!
Loved it!! ❤️
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Book was so good, love the taboo age gap, and the father son dynamics. Plus who doesn’t love a hot firefighter!
Loved it!! ❤️
October 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
It reminded me a lot of the book Birthday Girl. I felt like it was a little cringe but overall not bad. A pretty easy read.
I would love to see where this author goes and how they continue to develop!
It reminded me a lot of the book Birthday Girl. I felt like it was a little cringe but overall not bad. A pretty easy read.
I would love to see where this author goes and how they continue to develop!
March 29, 2025
An exceptionally tasteful and spicy debut novel crafted by a talented new writer.
March 30, 2025
I’d give more stars if I could
Story? Great
Sub plots? Phenomenal
I was scrolling TikTok and found a video about this book from I’m guessing the Author. 12/10. Amazing.
Story? Great
Sub plots? Phenomenal
I was scrolling TikTok and found a video about this book from I’m guessing the Author. 12/10. Amazing.
April 3, 2025
Amazing
Wow! This is everything I needed in a book! It’s the perfect amount of spice. This book is a 10/10! Highly recommend
Wow! This is everything I needed in a book! It’s the perfect amount of spice. This book is a 10/10! Highly recommend
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews