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Phoenix #5
Take Me
In the secret world of the Phoenix club, inhibitions are left behind, fantasies become reality, and lust can lead to love in this intoxicating romance from USA Today bestselling author Stacey Kennedy.
Nessa Hale is a hopeless romantic. Growing up, she witnessed her grandparents and parents’ epic love stories. But Nessa hasn’t been as lucky. Instead, she spends her free time swiping right on online dating apps and enduring hellish first dates trying to find the one. But when one of those dates ends tragically, Nessa is left emotionally shattered.
Ronan Crawford understands what it’s like to feel broken. As a retired Navy SEAL, he still suffers from the after-effects of war. Forming new friendships and working security at Phoenix, the secret sex club in the heart of New York City, has given him a purpose. He likes protecting people again. So when Nessa asks him to teach her self-defence techniques, he’s concerned, but up for the challenge. He can tell Nessa is suffering and he’s prepared to be her safe haven. What he’s unprepared for is how Nessa makes him feel like he’s coming back to life.
The more time they spend together, the more Ronan and Nessa help each other heal. As their friendship blossoms into something more, Ronan introduces Nessa to a world of no inhibitions and wicked desires. But when Nessa’s recovery is threatened and her life is endangered, Ronan vows to protect her at all costs. He knows he’ll have one chance to make Nessa safe again, but only Nessa can bring Ronan back from the darkness threatening to bury him….
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Nessa Hale is a hopeless romantic. Growing up, she witnessed her grandparents and parents’ epic love stories. But Nessa hasn’t been as lucky. Instead, she spends her free time swiping right on online dating apps and enduring hellish first dates trying to find the one. But when one of those dates ends tragically, Nessa is left emotionally shattered.
Ronan Crawford understands what it’s like to feel broken. As a retired Navy SEAL, he still suffers from the after-effects of war. Forming new friendships and working security at Phoenix, the secret sex club in the heart of New York City, has given him a purpose. He likes protecting people again. So when Nessa asks him to teach her self-defence techniques, he’s concerned, but up for the challenge. He can tell Nessa is suffering and he’s prepared to be her safe haven. What he’s unprepared for is how Nessa makes him feel like he’s coming back to life.
The more time they spend together, the more Ronan and Nessa help each other heal. As their friendship blossoms into something more, Ronan introduces Nessa to a world of no inhibitions and wicked desires. But when Nessa’s recovery is threatened and her life is endangered, Ronan vows to protect her at all costs. He knows he’ll have one chance to make Nessa safe again, but only Nessa can bring Ronan back from the darkness threatening to bury him….
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172 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2023
114 people are currently reading
348 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Kennedy
122 books2,403 followersStacey Kennedy is a USA Today bestselling author who writes contemporary romances full of heat, heart, and happily ever afters. With over 50 titles published, her books have hit Amazon, B&N, and Apple Books bestseller lists.
Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.
Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.
Stacey lives with her husband and two children in southwestern Ontario—in a city that’s just as charming as any of the small towns she creates. Most days, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors with her family or venturing into the forest with her horse, Priya. Stacey’s just as happy curled up indoors, where she writes surrounded by her lazy dogs. She believes that sexy books about hot cowboys or alpha heroes can fix any bad day. But wine and chocolate help too.
Stacey absolutely loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at stacey@staceykennedy.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 7, 2023
***ARC Provided by the Author***
This was a quick read, or maybe it just felt that way as I was immediately engaged in the story. I was annoyed by the awful first date (haven't we all been there?) and then very invested in the story after Nessa's traumatic event happens.
Nessa and Ronan have known one another for a while, and have flirted with one another, and then the dynamic of their relationship and the way Nessa relates to almost everyone changes. Being with her for the event was really interesting and I think it made me feel an immediate connection with the character that made me feel like I had read an entire book with her and not a few pages.
I was also really invested in the development of her relationship with Ronan and I loved the way the Phoenix club was introduced as a way for her to feel in control after that control was taken from her, and I also really loved that. It's a new way to represent the attraction to the BDSM world, and the reason for the involvement couldn't have been more compelling.
I was sad to see this one end.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
This was a quick read, or maybe it just felt that way as I was immediately engaged in the story. I was annoyed by the awful first date (haven't we all been there?) and then very invested in the story after Nessa's traumatic event happens.
Nessa and Ronan have known one another for a while, and have flirted with one another, and then the dynamic of their relationship and the way Nessa relates to almost everyone changes. Being with her for the event was really interesting and I think it made me feel an immediate connection with the character that made me feel like I had read an entire book with her and not a few pages.
I was also really invested in the development of her relationship with Ronan and I loved the way the Phoenix club was introduced as a way for her to feel in control after that control was taken from her, and I also really loved that. It's a new way to represent the attraction to the BDSM world, and the reason for the involvement couldn't have been more compelling.
I was sad to see this one end.
I enjoyed and recommend this title.
July 9, 2023
*2.5 FLAT STARS*
I was in the mood for a quick spicy read so I decided to pick this one up. I have to say I loved this series at the start (book 1 being my favorite with book 2 a close second), but I feel like things keep going downhill from there. The last two books were 3 star reads for me, but I just can't give this one more than two.
I tend to pick these up because they're short, but I mean, I would have preferred this to be a little longer so everything felt less rushed and we got to see our characters develop at least a little connection.
I didn't really feel the connection between our two main characters here, and while I expected some suspense judging from the blurb, I was left sorely disappointed. The bad guy was also super farfetched, I mean, why?? I did like the whole Ollie aspect, but I feel like Nessa agreed to doing the show way too quickly, especially after what just happened to her at the start of the book.
I will be reading book 6, which will be the last one, and hope that one is a little better.
I was in the mood for a quick spicy read so I decided to pick this one up. I have to say I loved this series at the start (book 1 being my favorite with book 2 a close second), but I feel like things keep going downhill from there. The last two books were 3 star reads for me, but I just can't give this one more than two.
I tend to pick these up because they're short, but I mean, I would have preferred this to be a little longer so everything felt less rushed and we got to see our characters develop at least a little connection.
I didn't really feel the connection between our two main characters here, and while I expected some suspense judging from the blurb, I was left sorely disappointed. The bad guy was also super farfetched, I mean, why?? I did like the whole Ollie aspect, but I feel like Nessa agreed to doing the show way too quickly, especially after what just happened to her at the start of the book.
I will be reading book 6, which will be the last one, and hope that one is a little better.
June 6, 2023
Take Me by Stacey Kennedy is book 5 in the Phoenix Series. This is the story of Nessa Hale and Ronan Crawford. Nessa is a nurse who has been wanting to find the love that her parents and grandparents have. Nessa ends up being attacked and they are looking to find the man that hurt her. But, Nessa is having doubts and is wanting to learn self defense with leads her to ask Ronan. Ronan is a retired Navy Seal, who is working security at Phoenix. This starts their story. Enjoyed.
June 14, 2023
This book starts with a HOLY COW moment in Nessa's life, a moment that all things will be now known by, something that happened before and after her attack. But thankfully, things change rather quickly when her friends are called to the hospital. Ronan has PTSD and has the sweetest therapy dog, Dax; with Dax and Ronan's help, maybe Nessa will feel safe again.
Ronan and Nessa have been flirting for a while, and now that he has seen the light leave her eyes, he will do anything to get it back.
Read my FULL Review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTM5
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Ronan and Nessa have been flirting for a while, and now that he has seen the light leave her eyes, he will do anything to get it back.
Read my FULL Review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewTM5
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
July 2, 2023
4.25⭐
Take Me is book five in Stacey Kennedy's brilliant and spicy Phoenix series. And this time ex-SEAL Ronan, his support dog Dex and Lottie's best friend and ER nurse Nessa take centre stage.
As when Nessa is attacked on the way home from a disastrous first date. Ronan is ready to tear the city apart to find the person responsible. But he's also ready to help Nessa deal with the aftermath of her ordeal and after months of flirting. He gets his chance to do that and then make a move.
As Ronan introduces her to the delights of Phoenix and the freedoms it offers.
But Nessa isn't a girl who does one night stands and as a hopeless romantic she needs more than a couple of nights and a show at Phoenix.
Yet, Ronan isn't sure he's good enough for her especially with his history and he's concerned he'll fail to protect her when it matters.
But Nessa doesn't want his protection just his love and is determined that he shows her how to protect herself.
And she'll have too as her attacker is ready to strike again.
And with a little suspense, plenty of spicy moments and likable characters, especially the adorable Ollie. This was an engaging and enjoyable read. That i'd happily recommend to others.
Take Me is book five in Stacey Kennedy's brilliant and spicy Phoenix series. And this time ex-SEAL Ronan, his support dog Dex and Lottie's best friend and ER nurse Nessa take centre stage.
As when Nessa is attacked on the way home from a disastrous first date. Ronan is ready to tear the city apart to find the person responsible. But he's also ready to help Nessa deal with the aftermath of her ordeal and after months of flirting. He gets his chance to do that and then make a move.
As Ronan introduces her to the delights of Phoenix and the freedoms it offers.
But Nessa isn't a girl who does one night stands and as a hopeless romantic she needs more than a couple of nights and a show at Phoenix.
Yet, Ronan isn't sure he's good enough for her especially with his history and he's concerned he'll fail to protect her when it matters.
But Nessa doesn't want his protection just his love and is determined that he shows her how to protect herself.
And she'll have too as her attacker is ready to strike again.
And with a little suspense, plenty of spicy moments and likable characters, especially the adorable Ollie. This was an engaging and enjoyable read. That i'd happily recommend to others.
June 5, 2023
This story is, despite what happened to Nessa at the beginning was really sweet. I loved Ronan. He was struggling with his demons, but when Nessa gets hurt, he feels that standing by and not making her his is over.
Nessa is trying to get back on her feet after the attack. With the help of her friends she is slowly getting there. But she's propositioned by Ronan to spend a night with him in Phoenix for a good cause, she agrees and the burning chemistry that's been there since they met, explodes in all its glory. But being vulnerable is not something they're accustomed to and the HEA almost misses them. But Ronan is not going to let anything stand in his way now when he finally has her.
Fast paced, sweet and swoony, filled with burning chemistry, this story was a great way to spend my evening.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Nessa is trying to get back on her feet after the attack. With the help of her friends she is slowly getting there. But she's propositioned by Ronan to spend a night with him in Phoenix for a good cause, she agrees and the burning chemistry that's been there since they met, explodes in all its glory. But being vulnerable is not something they're accustomed to and the HEA almost misses them. But Ronan is not going to let anything stand in his way now when he finally has her.
Fast paced, sweet and swoony, filled with burning chemistry, this story was a great way to spend my evening.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
June 9, 2023
We’ve seen Ronan flirting with Nessa in past Phoenix books, so I was excited to see how things developed.
Needless to say that Stacey didn’t disappoint and brought the perfect amount of spice and suspense.
After their show together, and the mixed signals from each other, they are not sure where to go next. When Nessa goes missing again, that’s all it takes for Ronan’s true feelings to hit him and the same was true for Nessa. Nessa knew that Ronan would find her, but would it be in time?
Needless to say that Stacey didn’t disappoint and brought the perfect amount of spice and suspense.
After their show together, and the mixed signals from each other, they are not sure where to go next. When Nessa goes missing again, that’s all it takes for Ronan’s true feelings to hit him and the same was true for Nessa. Nessa knew that Ronan would find her, but would it be in time?
July 26, 2023
A really fast but pretty good story. Looking forward to the finale and hope it returns to the magic of the beginning of the series . Ronan and Nessa were great but wish they'd had more to time grow in their relationship
May 3, 2025
Trochu mě fascinuje, jak lze napsat sérii, která se točí okolo erotického klubu, tak něžně, s citem a spíše romanticky a taky bez nějakých větších úchylek🤗.
Vzhledem k tomu, že je to už pátý díl, tak jsem věděla, co čekat. Svižné, žádné složité zápletky ani zbytečné okecávání, sympatické postavy a nějaký ten sexíček. Je pravda, že to mohlo být rozhodně o pár stránek delší, ale co už🙄.
Nessa a Ronan po sobě už delší dobu pokukovali. Protože jí přepadli, tak se k němu nastěhovala, aby jí měl na očích. Ona zdravotní sestřička, která se ráda o někoho starala, on bývalí voják s postraumatickou stresovou poruchou. Milovala jsem psa Dexe, jak Ronana vždy přišel utěšit a jak díky němu vše lépe zvládal❤️.
Ani tentokrát se na tajný klub nezapomnělo, a i ta jedna scéna za mě stačila.
Celkově mi přijde, že první dva díly měly větší šmrnc, grády a od třetího dílu to šlo mírně dolů a ubylo žhavějších scén 😬.
Lehce váhám s hodnocení, fakt mi to přišlo o dost více zrychlené než u předchozích párů, ale nechám to asi takto. Mám slabost pro bývalé vojáky a rozkošné psy. Ještě musím ocenit epilog, ve kterém se autorka vyhnula určitým věcem, které všeobecně moc v této část nemusím.
🐕🦺 vyprávění ve třetí osobě
🐕🦺 asistenční labrador
🐕🦺 přepadení
🐕🦺 on si myslí, že má moc temnou duši a nemá ji co nabídnout
Vzhledem k tomu, že je to už pátý díl, tak jsem věděla, co čekat. Svižné, žádné složité zápletky ani zbytečné okecávání, sympatické postavy a nějaký ten sexíček. Je pravda, že to mohlo být rozhodně o pár stránek delší, ale co už🙄.
Nessa a Ronan po sobě už delší dobu pokukovali. Protože jí přepadli, tak se k němu nastěhovala, aby jí měl na očích. Ona zdravotní sestřička, která se ráda o někoho starala, on bývalí voják s postraumatickou stresovou poruchou. Milovala jsem psa Dexe, jak Ronana vždy přišel utěšit a jak díky němu vše lépe zvládal❤️.
Ani tentokrát se na tajný klub nezapomnělo, a i ta jedna scéna za mě stačila.
Celkově mi přijde, že první dva díly měly větší šmrnc, grády a od třetího dílu to šlo mírně dolů a ubylo žhavějších scén 😬.
Lehce váhám s hodnocení, fakt mi to přišlo o dost více zrychlené než u předchozích párů, ale nechám to asi takto. Mám slabost pro bývalé vojáky a rozkošné psy. Ještě musím ocenit epilog, ve kterém se autorka vyhnula určitým věcem, které všeobecně moc v této část nemusím.
🐕🦺 vyprávění ve třetí osobě
🐕🦺 asistenční labrador
🐕🦺 přepadení
🐕🦺 on si myslí, že má moc temnou duši a nemá ji co nabídnout
February 12, 2024
Take Me (Phoenix #5) by Stacey Kennedy
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers:
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers:
February 11, 2024
Ronan and Nessa have known each other through mutual friends, Lottie and Hunt. But when Nessa is attacked, Ronan becomes her protector. Before the attack, they flirted with each other but nothing became of it. Now Nessa is staying with Ronan until her attacker is caught. Will the proximity lead them to the intimacy they both want?
Nessa is a nurse and she works with sick children. When Ronan hears about one of the children needing help paying for treatments, he offers a solution to Nessa. Can he introduce her to Club Phoenix without scaring her off?
I have loved this series from the beginning and I think Nessa and Ronan are my favorite couple. Their connection is deeper than just the club. She is the light to his dark, or so he said. This story is filled with a little mystery that you will not see coming in the end by who Nessa's attacker was. You will be on the edge trying to figure it out. I highly recommend this one and the entire series, you can't go wrong with this author.
Mary @ Wicked Reads
Nessa is a nurse and she works with sick children. When Ronan hears about one of the children needing help paying for treatments, he offers a solution to Nessa. Can he introduce her to Club Phoenix without scaring her off?
I have loved this series from the beginning and I think Nessa and Ronan are my favorite couple. Their connection is deeper than just the club. She is the light to his dark, or so he said. This story is filled with a little mystery that you will not see coming in the end by who Nessa's attacker was. You will be on the edge trying to figure it out. I highly recommend this one and the entire series, you can't go wrong with this author.
Mary @ Wicked Reads
July 27, 2024
Ronan & Nessa's story. Ronan=retired Navy SEAL, security for Phoenix, damaged with a lot of PTS. Nessa=Lottie's best friend, nurse, sweet and kind. They've been flirting in the other books & have struck up a friendship. Nessa is brutally attacked by an unknown assailant & Ronan goes into protective mode to keep her safe. Hunt is helping with the investigation and keeping the Phoenix gang in the loop. Ronan is trying to claw his way out of his PTS and feels a connection with Nessa and she is trying to overcome her attack. Together they navigate their anxiety and feelings while drawing close to each other. When a night at the club is offered as a way to regain her control back and help a friend in need, Nessa takes the chance with Ronan in what turn into a beautiful story. Penny the hacker offers information on Nessa's attacker and she & Hawke are thrown together to investigate a new bug found in the club setting up the next book in the series. Well written on dealing with that after shocks of an attack.
June 14, 2023
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU / B&N / KOBO / APPLE / GOOGLE
When Nessa is attacked, Ronan's the one who steps up and is there for her in every way. Before she was assaulted, they'd lightly flirted with each other, but now, being in such close proximity, that flirtation is going to morph into something much stronger, much deeper, something healing. But if they can't find out who attacked her and bring him to justice, their relationship may be over as soon as it started. Can this former SEAL protect the woman he's falling so hard for?
Nessa's always wanted that fairy tale kind of love, but all her horrible first dates have been bringing her down. She's starting to wonder if it's in the cards for her. Then after she's attacked, the guy she's crushed on steps in and is there for her. Their feelings are about to go from flirting to much more.
I love this series, but Ronan and Nessa's story has made me love it that much more. They're by far my favorite couple so far and their story has all the things I look for in a great story - a lovable couple fighting demons who find healing with each other, some suspense, and sizzling chemistry.
ARC provided by Give Me Books Promotions for an honest review.
Ebook also purchased through Amazon.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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March 18, 2024
Check out our full post for TAKE ME on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
Ronan and Nessa have known each other through mutual friends, Lottie and Hunt. But when Nessa is attacked, Ronan becomes her protector. Before the attack, they flirted with each other, but nothing became of it. Now Nessa is staying with Ronan until her attacker is caught. Will the proximity lead them to the intimacy they both want?
Nessa is a nurse, and she works with sick children. When Ronan hears about one of the children needing help paying for treatments, he offers a solution to Nessa. Can he introduce her to Club Phoenix without scaring her off?
I have loved this series from the beginning, and I think Nessa and Ronan are my favorite couple. Their connection is deeper than just the club. She is the light to his dark, or so he said. This story is filled with a little mystery that you will not see coming in the end by who Nessa's attacker was. You will be on the edge trying to figure it out. I highly recommend this one and the entire series, you can't go wrong with this author.
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Triggers: Hidden because they may contain spoilers.
Nessa loves love. She's a compassionate, loving person who cares about everyone. Nessa has been on several terrible first dates lately and she's getting tired of them. When Nessa is attacked, it'll take all of her friends to show her that she can heal and come back even stronger.
Ronan is a protector. Even after his end with the SEALs, he takes his work seriously and he takes his crush on Nessa very seriously. He wants to show Nessa that she can take back the power she thinks she's lost. He wants to show her how good they can be together.
When danger lurks around every corner and their friends are put in danger too, Nessa and Ronan will have to fight for their friends and themselves.
This was a fun read with just the right amount of alpha and hot steam. You won't regret this one.
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the fifth book in the series, and I do think that the story was richer for having met most of the characters before – so you are in for a heap of goodness if you start at the beginning of the series.
Nessa suffers an awful attack, which finally wakes Ronan up to him missing his chance, and failing the woman he cares so much about. Their journey is not simple due to their pasts, but they do both recognise that there is possibly a future for them outside the Phoenix.
I enjoyed how Nessa found out why Ronan had such a fabulous apartment, and how together they could do a good thing for a very sick little boy in hospital. It was a fun way to set up some low risk but highly passionate scenes and open the door to a more permanent relationship.
My review would be incomplete without giving Dex, Ronan's support dog, a huge thank you as he was fundamental in giving both leads much comfort and belief in the possibility that love can conquer all.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
June 5, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Nessa and Ronan. She is a girl who is a hopeless romantic. She has grown up and seen her grandparents and parents have really great love stories. The kind of love she has always dreamed of finding. However she hasn't been so lucky in love and spends a lot of time swiping right and some horrific dates trying to find the love she has always been seeking. However never in a million years could she see the tragedy that was coming for her with one particular date and it has changed her emotionally and not for the better. Ronan is a retired Navy Seal who suffers from the things he has seen in war. However he is working and forming new friendships with his new job working security at Phoenix, and exclusive club where fantasies become reality in the heart of New York City. He has found a purpose again and is doing what he does best by protecting people. When Nessa asks him to teach her self defense he knows that she is broken but not totally sure what has happened and he really doesn't know what the feelings are he is beginning to feel when he is around her. She is bringing him back to life. With the amount of time they are spending together they begin to be each other save havens and healing is happening He has introduced her to a world where no inhibitions and wicked desires are a reality. But when her life is in danger he knows he will only ever have one chance to save her However darkness is threatening to bury him and she is the only one who can bring him back. Will they be able to save each other.
You have to read to find that out of course. I liked the characters in this book. Nessa and Ronan both really go through it and i liked seeing their relationship grown and change. There are moments that will break your heart and some that will have you on the edge of your seat.
This is the story of Nessa and Ronan. She is a girl who is a hopeless romantic. She has grown up and seen her grandparents and parents have really great love stories. The kind of love she has always dreamed of finding. However she hasn't been so lucky in love and spends a lot of time swiping right and some horrific dates trying to find the love she has always been seeking. However never in a million years could she see the tragedy that was coming for her with one particular date and it has changed her emotionally and not for the better. Ronan is a retired Navy Seal who suffers from the things he has seen in war. However he is working and forming new friendships with his new job working security at Phoenix, and exclusive club where fantasies become reality in the heart of New York City. He has found a purpose again and is doing what he does best by protecting people. When Nessa asks him to teach her self defense he knows that she is broken but not totally sure what has happened and he really doesn't know what the feelings are he is beginning to feel when he is around her. She is bringing him back to life. With the amount of time they are spending together they begin to be each other save havens and healing is happening He has introduced her to a world where no inhibitions and wicked desires are a reality. But when her life is in danger he knows he will only ever have one chance to save her However darkness is threatening to bury him and she is the only one who can bring him back. Will they be able to save each other.
You have to read to find that out of course. I liked the characters in this book. Nessa and Ronan both really go through it and i liked seeing their relationship grown and change. There are moments that will break your heart and some that will have you on the edge of your seat.
June 11, 2023
This was a slow burn - high heat - I wish it was longer - heartache sweet romance
Nessa is a hopeless romantic who has been looking for love - quite unsuccessfully I might add. Seems every man she meets is either too frisky or boring or the latest who was highly self-absorbed with a God complex
The chemistry was just not there but she was not giving up
On the way home from her last disaster of a date, Nessa finds herself the victim of a violent attack
Still shaken and unsure she turns to her currently assigned protector and secret crush
Ronan
A former Navy SEAL who now works security at Phoenix
Nessa approaches him to ask him to teach her self-defense.
Ronan is initially reluctant, but he eventually agrees to help her.
As they spend more time together, they begin to fall for each other.
However, their relationship is not without its challenges.
Ronan is still haunted by his past, and Nessa is struggling to let go of her fears.
And there is a possibility the attack on Nessa was personal and they will be back to finish the job
This was such a sweet slow burn find yourself again romance
The characters were well-developed and likable, and the story was full of humor, heart, and heat. I especially loved the chemistry between Nessa and Ronan. They were both so passionate about each other.
She was his light and He was her shield.
Nessa is a hopeless romantic who has been looking for love - quite unsuccessfully I might add. Seems every man she meets is either too frisky or boring or the latest who was highly self-absorbed with a God complex
The chemistry was just not there but she was not giving up
On the way home from her last disaster of a date, Nessa finds herself the victim of a violent attack
Still shaken and unsure she turns to her currently assigned protector and secret crush
Ronan
A former Navy SEAL who now works security at Phoenix
Nessa approaches him to ask him to teach her self-defense.
Ronan is initially reluctant, but he eventually agrees to help her.
As they spend more time together, they begin to fall for each other.
However, their relationship is not without its challenges.
Ronan is still haunted by his past, and Nessa is struggling to let go of her fears.
And there is a possibility the attack on Nessa was personal and they will be back to finish the job
This was such a sweet slow burn find yourself again romance
The characters were well-developed and likable, and the story was full of humor, heart, and heat. I especially loved the chemistry between Nessa and Ronan. They were both so passionate about each other.
She was his light and He was her shield.
February 23, 2024
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the fifth book in the series, and I do think that the story was richer for having met most of the characters before - so you are in for a heap of goodness if you start at the beginning of the series.
Nessa suffers an awful attack which finally wakes Ronan up to him missing his chance, and failing the woman he cares so much about. Their journey is not simple due to their pasts, but they do both recognise that there is possibly a future for them outside the Phoenix.
I enjoyed how Nessa found out why Ronan had such a fabulous apartment, and how together they could do a good thing for a very sick little boy in hospital. It was a fun way to set up some low risk but highly passionate scenes, and open the door to a more permanent relationship.
My review would be incomplete without giving Dex, Ronan's support dog a huge thank you - as he was fundamental in giving both leads much comfort and belief in the possibility that love can conquer all.
This is the fifth book in the series, and I do think that the story was richer for having met most of the characters before - so you are in for a heap of goodness if you start at the beginning of the series.
Nessa suffers an awful attack which finally wakes Ronan up to him missing his chance, and failing the woman he cares so much about. Their journey is not simple due to their pasts, but they do both recognise that there is possibly a future for them outside the Phoenix.
I enjoyed how Nessa found out why Ronan had such a fabulous apartment, and how together they could do a good thing for a very sick little boy in hospital. It was a fun way to set up some low risk but highly passionate scenes, and open the door to a more permanent relationship.
My review would be incomplete without giving Dex, Ronan's support dog a huge thank you - as he was fundamental in giving both leads much comfort and belief in the possibility that love can conquer all.
June 19, 2023
Need to go back and read the previous books! While this can be read as a standalone, I definitely felt like the book started rather abruptly and I felt like I was missing backstory on these characters, but it still was an enjoyable read. Nessa and Ronan have danced around each other for a while, as they run in the same group of friends, and while they are both attracted to each other, neither have made a move, until one-night changes everything when Nessa is attacked after a date with another man. Overwhelmed with feelings to protect and take care of her, Ronan takes on that role with Nessa while trying to find out who was behind her attack, and as they start to spend time together, they give into their chemistry and feelings that have built over time. Included in that, we also see Ronan let Nessa into his secret of the club, and she finds it's something she enjoys, much like her friends. This was a quick read for me, and I want to go back and read the other books in the series and get caught up with these characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
June 6, 2023
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Take Me by Stacey Kennedy is a romantic suspense. It's the fifth book from the Phoenix series.
This is about Nessa Hale, a very kind and loving emergency room nurse, and Ronan Crawford, an ex-Navy Seal.
I think these two are my new favorite couple from this series. Their story is dramatic and emotional with a few very steamy moments. It started with an intense scene and ended with a sweet one. Half of the story was about finding the man who attacked Nessa while teaching her how to protect herself. The other half was saving a person close to her while showing her the incredible world of Phoenix. This book contains a few triggers so it might not be for everyone. The stories were incredible and very touching. My favorite part was when Nessa defended herself.
I might have cried but I loved every minute of this story. I highly recommend it!!!
Take Me by Stacey Kennedy is a romantic suspense. It's the fifth book from the Phoenix series.
This is about Nessa Hale, a very kind and loving emergency room nurse, and Ronan Crawford, an ex-Navy Seal.
I think these two are my new favorite couple from this series. Their story is dramatic and emotional with a few very steamy moments. It started with an intense scene and ended with a sweet one. Half of the story was about finding the man who attacked Nessa while teaching her how to protect herself. The other half was saving a person close to her while showing her the incredible world of Phoenix. This book contains a few triggers so it might not be for everyone. The stories were incredible and very touching. My favorite part was when Nessa defended herself.
I might have cried but I loved every minute of this story. I highly recommend it!!!
June 11, 2023
Take Me is a friends to lovers thriller with all the feels.
Stacey Kennedy takes us on a journey about Nessa and Ronan, two friends who start realizing they feel more about each other than they realized, after Nessa is attacked on her way home from another horrible first date. Ronan takes care of Nessa, making sure she’s safe, and eventually their relationship becomes physical. Nurse Nessa has taken a special interest in a boy at her hospital. Ollie is suffering from cancer and his mom can’t afford his treatment. Ronan comes up with a special method using both himself and Nessa, and another couple to raise money for the boy, but Nessa’s attacker is waiting in the wings to finish what he started. Can ex-SEAL Ronan keep her safe from a madman?
The sex scenes were hot, the plot interesting, and the characters well drawn. Overall, a really good read!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Stacey Kennedy takes us on a journey about Nessa and Ronan, two friends who start realizing they feel more about each other than they realized, after Nessa is attacked on her way home from another horrible first date. Ronan takes care of Nessa, making sure she’s safe, and eventually their relationship becomes physical. Nurse Nessa has taken a special interest in a boy at her hospital. Ollie is suffering from cancer and his mom can’t afford his treatment. Ronan comes up with a special method using both himself and Nessa, and another couple to raise money for the boy, but Nessa’s attacker is waiting in the wings to finish what he started. Can ex-SEAL Ronan keep her safe from a madman?
The sex scenes were hot, the plot interesting, and the characters well drawn. Overall, a really good read!
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
June 8, 2023
I quite enjoyed the latest installment in Stacey Kennedy's Phoenix series despite being geared up for a heavy read! This story deals with assault, PTSD and other assorted trauma which may trigger some heavy emotions in some. I was prepared for that but honestly, the author (and Dex) handled the subject matter expertly.
After an assault, the beautiful, vibrant Nessa struggles with the question of ever feeling like herself again. Or ever feeling that hum of desire for the devastatingly handsome Ronan. But Ronan is there to protect her and bring her back to life. The will they, won't they from previous interactions comes to a head in an interesting way in this story but culminates beautiful.
Great characters, good suspense, sexy times on point! Great read as usual for this awesome series!
After an assault, the beautiful, vibrant Nessa struggles with the question of ever feeling like herself again. Or ever feeling that hum of desire for the devastatingly handsome Ronan. But Ronan is there to protect her and bring her back to life. The will they, won't they from previous interactions comes to a head in an interesting way in this story but culminates beautiful.
Great characters, good suspense, sexy times on point! Great read as usual for this awesome series!
June 10, 2023
4 stars
I quite enjoyed the latest installment in Stacey Kennedy's Phoenix series despite being geared up for a heavy read! This story deals with assault, PTSD and other assorted trauma which may trigger some heavy emotions in some. I was prepared for that but honestly, the author (and Dex) handled the subject matter expertly.
After an assault, the beautiful, vibrant Nessa struggles with the question of ever feeling like herself again. Or ever feeling that hum of desire for the devastatingly handsome Ronan. But Ronan is there to protect her and bring her back to life. The will they, won't they from previous interactions comes to a head in an interesting way in this story but culminates beautiful.
Great characters, good suspense, sexy times on point! Great read as usual for this awesome series!
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
I quite enjoyed the latest installment in Stacey Kennedy's Phoenix series despite being geared up for a heavy read! This story deals with assault, PTSD and other assorted trauma which may trigger some heavy emotions in some. I was prepared for that but honestly, the author (and Dex) handled the subject matter expertly.
After an assault, the beautiful, vibrant Nessa struggles with the question of ever feeling like herself again. Or ever feeling that hum of desire for the devastatingly handsome Ronan. But Ronan is there to protect her and bring her back to life. The will they, won't they from previous interactions comes to a head in an interesting way in this story but culminates beautiful.
Great characters, good suspense, sexy times on point! Great read as usual for this awesome series!
AnnMarie - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
June 5, 2023
This is the fifth book in this incredible series, and this is Ronan and Nessa’s journey. Nessa is a hopeless romantic, who craves the love that her parents and grandparents have, and while using a dating app, a date ends tragically. Ronan is a retired Navy Seal, who is working security at Phoenix, and Nessa approaches him to ask him to teach her self-defence. With Nessa’s life in danger, Ronan will do whatever he must to protect and keep her safe. This is a well written story which has emotions, passion, friendships, family, challenges, danger, suspense, twists, heartbreak, and love which leads to an entertaining and addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 4, 2023
Take Me is a "A Healing Connection Filled with Passion and Protection" is a captivating romance that weaves together themes of healing, self-discovery, and love. With its emotional depth and sizzling chemistry between the protagonists, it is a read that will leave you rooting for Nessa and Ronan's happiness until the very end.
While the story offers an engaging plot and well-developed characters, some readers may find that certain aspects of the story could have been further explored or expanded upon. Nonetheless, the heartwarming and passionate connection between Nessa and Ronan is undeniable, making it a truly compelling read.
Full review- https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
While the story offers an engaging plot and well-developed characters, some readers may find that certain aspects of the story could have been further explored or expanded upon. Nonetheless, the heartwarming and passionate connection between Nessa and Ronan is undeniable, making it a truly compelling read.
Full review- https://bookcaseandcoffee.com
June 6, 2023
Take Me was a mesmerising page-turner romantic suspense with a whole lot of heat wrapped, around some heart-wrenching moments, Nessa and Ronan light up the screen not only with their chemistry, the scene at the Phoenix will have you reaching for a cool glass of ice, but with how together they deal with their own tragedies both personally and professionally.
A short end to another first date for nurse Nessa, and danger is around the corner step in Ronan, from her group of friends and secret crush and things are about to get very interesting, add in Ronan’s own tragic past, lovely young Ollie and his mom and this guaranteed Stacey Kennedy had produced another 5 Star winner.
A short end to another first date for nurse Nessa, and danger is around the corner step in Ronan, from her group of friends and secret crush and things are about to get very interesting, add in Ronan’s own tragic past, lovely young Ollie and his mom and this guaranteed Stacey Kennedy had produced another 5 Star winner.
June 6, 2023
Great addition to this series. This can be read as a standalone but I strongly suggest reading the whole series since every book it fantastic! I feel in love with Nessa & Ronan as well as Dex who is Ronan's service dog. Nessa & Ronan have had a secret crush on one another... but it's not until Nessa is brutally attacked after leaving another horrible first date that Ronan becomes her protector and spends all of his time watching over her. This is an emotional ride for these two. Ronan has baggage and doesn't think he's good enough for Nessa. Nessa believes in love but just doesn't think it will happen for her. These two find out that they definitely have chemistry but is that enough?
April 28, 2025
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Story: 📖📖📖
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Spice Frequency: 💥💥💥
I really liked this story about an ex Navy SEAL and a nurse who is recovering from the physical and emotional aftermath of being attacked on the street. I love the way that Ronan makes Nessa feel safe again and teaches her how to protect herself, while still having the "touch her and die" energy we expect from an ex-military character. the spicy scenes didn't start until about halfway through the book, and there was only 1 scene in Phoenix, the "club" that's part of this series' universe.
This book can be read as a standalone even though it is part of a series.
Story: 📖📖📖
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶
Spice Frequency: 💥💥💥
I really liked this story about an ex Navy SEAL and a nurse who is recovering from the physical and emotional aftermath of being attacked on the street. I love the way that Ronan makes Nessa feel safe again and teaches her how to protect herself, while still having the "touch her and die" energy we expect from an ex-military character. the spicy scenes didn't start until about halfway through the book, and there was only 1 scene in Phoenix, the "club" that's part of this series' universe.
This book can be read as a standalone even though it is part of a series.
June 11, 2023
This book is part of the Phoenix series. We met both characters in previous books and this story develops a relationship between them Neesa is looking for love and it would appear in all the wrong places. Ronan works at Phoenix and has been interested in something more with Neesa. A physical attack on Neesa gives Ronan an opportunity to be there for her as a support and protector and their mutual attraction leads to beautiful moments and to a selfless act of giving and support for a young cancer patient that is beyond moving.
January 29, 2024
Take Me is the 5th book in the series, pairing Phoenix member Ronan with Lotti's best friend Nessa, who's new to the club. When Nessa finds herself in grave danger, Ronan agrees to be her bodyguard which leads to them giving in gradually to their attraction which culminates in a steamy show at the club. The fast-paced story packs a number of emotional punches but leads to not just one, but two happy endings!
I was given a free copy by the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I was given a free copy by the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
November 7, 2025
Take Me (Phoenix Book 5)
These books are so good, excitement, sex, love and sometimes mayhem. Good people and bad, just like real life. I'm so glad you included the difficulties of PTSD and the help that is available, and with good help many live a good life with an understanding loved one and a dog. The Phoenix is a very awesome place for so many reasons, and has obviously helped people get their confidence back by participating in shows at the high class club. It just sounds wonderful to me.
These books are so good, excitement, sex, love and sometimes mayhem. Good people and bad, just like real life. I'm so glad you included the difficulties of PTSD and the help that is available, and with good help many live a good life with an understanding loved one and a dog. The Phoenix is a very awesome place for so many reasons, and has obviously helped people get their confidence back by participating in shows at the high class club. It just sounds wonderful to me.
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