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Phoenix #2

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Pro soukromou vyšetřovatelku Elise Fanningovou je nabourání se do sítě exkluzivního klubu Phoenix hračka. Stačí pár kliknutí, pomoc kamarádky a dostane se za zamčené dveře velmi uzavřené společnosti.
Elise si však rychle uvědomí, že nebyla tak nenápadná, jak si myslela, protože se ocitne tváří v tvář šéfovi ochranky klubu, vysloužilému vojákovi Archeru Westbrookovi. V obnošených džínách a kožené bundě vypadá jako chodící reklama na chtíč a čelit mu nebude vůbec snadný úkol.
Archer miluje chytré a svůdné ženy. Takže když se Elise nabourá do sítě, o které si myslel, že je nedobytná, je ohromen. A když dojde k narušení bezpečnosti ještě z jiné strany, je mu jasné, že potřebuje Eliseinu pomoc.
Střet dvou tvrdohlavých osobností vede k sérii vášnivých výměn názorů, během nichž si Archer postupně uvědomuje, že potkal svůj ideální protějšek. Každý opojný pohled, každý horký dotek v něm vzbuzuje stále větší vášeň, ale Elise je ostražitá. Bude jí muset ukázat, že spalující touha mezi nimi stojí za trochu rizika.
Když jí Archer nabídne jednu noc ve Phoenixu, během níž se může oddávat své nejdivočejší fantazii, Elise ví, že by měla odmítnout. Přesto souhlasí. Ignorovat slastné pocity, které s ním zažívá, je nemožné. Souhlasí s jednou nocí a pak Archerův svůdný svět nadobro opustí.
Takový je aspoň plán…

213 pages, Paperback

First published April 20, 2021

479 people are currently reading
2472 people want to read

About the author

Stacey Kennedy

120 books2,395 followers
Stacey 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.

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Profile Image for Stacey Kennedy.
Author 120 books2,395 followers
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April 21, 2021
description

Elise and Archer are here!!! Squeeeeeeee!!! 💖💖💖

I absolutely loved writing this book. Every single second of it! If you end up checking out Elise and Archer's story, I hope you love it.

What’s KEEP ME all about:
⋆ Bighearted tough Hero
⋆ Kick ass and take names Heroine
⋆ Frenemies to lovers
⋆ A fling that never ends
⋆ Steamy banter
⋆ A mystery
⋆ Panty-melting sex

One night of pleasure, one night of sin, one night that changes everything.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NPTcYV
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/KeepMeSK
Apple: http://apple.co/3uUMgtU
Nook: http://bit.ly/2O297mX
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2MIBkyn
Google Play: http://bit.ly/3e3NNYQ
Signed Paperback: https://bit.ly/3aobWGG
Profile Image for Jessica Alcazar.
4,397 reviews622 followers
April 24, 2021
If you’ve read this series from the beginning (this is only the second book) then you’ll notice the story begins where the first book left off, seamlessly. If you haven’t, I don’t think you’ll have any issue reading this as a standalone. Obviously, I think you should start at the beginning (I am a fanatical fan of Stacey’s lol) but it’s totally up to you :)

But let’s talk a bit about Elise and Archer! These two surprised me, or rather their journey surprised me. In a good way of course lol I can’t really say why, but I wasn’t expecting their story to tug at my heart as much as it did. I’d met these two in the first book, and to say they were antagonistic towards each other would be putting it mildly and I guess I thought I would be reading a journey more on the hate to love you, side. That’s not even close to what we got. My heart is overflowing after reading their story. Their background/history (for both) was not fluffy clouds and rainbows. Elise has some traumatic experiences from her past and Archer’s experience in the military is equally traumatic. Having both had trauma in their lives allowed them to grow closer and use those experiences to heal each other and build a relationship. The storyline of course had the mystery aspect to it, but I didn’t find it to be center stage at all. Truth be told, for me, it wasn’t a mystery at all. The development of their relationship was the true focus here and it definitely took center stage. I loved the choices that Stacey made with their characters and not adding drama for drama because they already brought enough history into their relationship due to their pasts. This is one of my favorite reads by Stacey in a while. I love all her books in one way or another, but I felt these two when I read their story and I liked that a lot.

It goes without saying, but maybe I’ll say it anyway :) but Stacey is one of the best authors I know that incorporates the sinfully sexy into her storylines and makes you shiver and tingly with every scene. From the erotic to the romantic, she hits the mark every time. Sometimes her heat level is a simmer, and sometimes it is boiling point hot, but every time, no matter which, it is deliciously written :)

Go forth and enjoy! Stacey has yet to ever disappoint me in the many years I’ve been reading her stories and I am sure she won’t disappoint you as well! #trust



Download your copy today!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2NPTcYV
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/KeepMeSK
Apple: http://apple.co/3uUMgtU
Nook: http://bit.ly/2O297mX
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2MIBkyn
Google Play: http://bit.ly/3e3NNYQ
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,876 reviews213 followers
April 20, 2021


Amazon / Amazon Worldwide / Apple / Nook / Kobo / Google Play

When Elise manages to get past Archer's security at club Phoenix, he's intrigued, annoyed, and very, very turned on once he sees the gorgeous spitfire. But it's when he offers her a job trying to find out who's after his club that the attraction has the chance to spark to life.

Elise has kept herself very guarded since she witnessed something as a child that no one should ever have to witness. But when she meets Archer, he somehow manages to sneak past her usual defenses. Will she let him all the way in?

And what of Archer? He too keeps himself at a distance because his time serving as a Green Beret had him seeing and doing things he'd rather not remember, rather not psychoanalyze. But will that tendency to keep himself distant from his feelings ruin what he and Elise are building?

Whew, Elise and Archer practically scorched my Kindle! But more importantly, it was obvious their deep connection was building from their first meeting. I felt so for Elise, her backstory was heartbreaking, and I wanted something, someone, great for her. Archer was definitely that, once he got past his bonehead behavior near the end, and their story was sexy and emotionally substantial. I can't wait for Save Me, Hazel and Kieran's story, next.



ARC via Social Butterfly PR for an honest review.
Ebook also purchased via Amazon.


Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
April 23, 2021
This series is so deep and the sexual tension is outstanding. Archer Westbrook is the head of security for the exclusive sex club Phoenix. When there is an issue that needs some investigating, he turns to private investigator Elise Fanning. These two definitely know how to push each other’s buttons; and not in a good way. There is major attraction between these two and the tension is so good that when they finally give in it is world changing. I cannot begin to describe how much I enjoyed this story. The characters and plot were amazing. Everything was well paced and nothing felt rushed. Both Archer and Elise seem to be set on their path, but after they get together, it throws everything up in the air to where they are trying to figure out what they really want. Such a satisfying ending with a little peek in to the next story in the series.--

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,723 reviews40 followers
April 18, 2021
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the second book in the series, it follows on from the previous one, and whilst it is not essential to have read it first, I would definitely say that you would benefit from reading them in order.

Elise's hacker friend Penny showed up some security issues in book 1, and now Elise is getting more work from the Phoenix club - this means she has to spend time with Head of Security, Archer - their chemistry is combustable, so it is both a pleasure and a danger. It is hugely enjoyable watching the two of them dealing with their work relationship and pushing the boundaries as Elise goes undercover in the club.

This is another sensual read, with a great mix of humour, intrigue and plenty of passion. I am looking forward to the next installment already.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Siobhan.
5,026 reviews599 followers
April 23, 2021
Keep Me is the second book in Stacey Kennedy’s Phoenix series, and I was eager to dive into this one after enjoying Watch Me. Although I did not enjoy this quite as much as I enjoyed the first book, it was another addictive read.

As with my other Stacey Kennedy reads, this one gripped me with ease and had me falling for the characters in no time. There was plenty to love about them both, and I couldn’t get enough of the way things developed between them. The side story, the mystery element, wasn’t quite all I had hoped for, yet it was not enough to take away from my enjoyment of the story. It hooked with ease, ensuring I finished it in a single sitting.

I cannot wait to dive into book three, as I have high hopes for what has been promised.
Profile Image for Liz [reads books].
1,314 reviews63 followers
April 24, 2021
This is just a nice mystery, and the love story is almost a sidebar. I liked both elements of this.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,251 reviews123 followers
April 17, 2021
Keep Me might be the most sexy and fiery read I have read in a very long time, probably since Watch Me. The emotions of this book are so intense it is palatable off the page. I could not get enough of them together. The pleasure and sinfulness of this story was just the spice I needed! This is book 2 in the Phoenix Club series it can be read as a standalone, but you are going to want to read Watch Me trust me.

More indepth review at Bookcaseandcoffee.com
Profile Image for WycEd Reader.
2,384 reviews39 followers
April 23, 2021


Check out our full post for KEEP ME on Wicked Reads.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
This is book two in the Phoenix series and it kinda picks up where book one ended.

Archer Westbrook is head of security at the exclusive club and when someone hacks into the system, he will find out who it was and why they did it. What he finds out is surprising, and also intriguing.

When he meets Elise Fanning, private eye, there is more to her than just what his eyes can see.
When Archer offers Elise a job to help him find out who is targeting the club, she knows it will be hard to keep her walls up. There is something on a deeper level pulling them towards each other.

While Archer is retired Army Special Forces, Elise is an independent, strong woman, they seem to clash with every decision.

With one touch from the other, will they give in and give a relationship a chance? Can they figure out who has targeted the club and why?

I am loving this series, it is filled with alpha males, strong women, it’s hot with a touch of mystery. Everything you need in a great story. I would recommend reading the first one because you don't want to miss a thing with this series.


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in the series, it follows on from the previous one, and whilst it is not essential to have read it first, I would definitely say that you would benefit from reading them in order.

Elise's hacker friend, Penny, showed up some security issues in book one, and now Elise is getting more work from the Phoenix club – this means she has to spend time with Head of Security, Archer – their chemistry is combustable, so it is both a pleasure and a danger. It is hugely enjoyable watching the two of them dealing with their work relationship and pushing the boundaries as Elise goes undercover in the club.

This is another sensual read, with a great mix of humour, intrigue, and plenty of passion. I am looking forward to the next installment already.


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Triggers: Talk about childhood trauma and murder

Archer hates to lose. But when he’s beaten by Elise at his own game, he knows that she’s the person he needs when someone breaches the club again.

Elise is smart as a whip, caring, and wants to get justice for everyone she can. Her associate, Penny, is also hilarious and gets the job done with Elise.

Archer and Elise have been dancing around their attraction for a while now and when a case comes up that Archer needs Elise on, it’s the perfect time to get her in the club.

The case is a non-starter. I actually wish we could’ve had a more involved case because it was more filler than anything. But the chemistry between Archer and Elise will burn your book pages!

Whew, they have great chemistry, and their friends are rooting for them. It was a fast, steamy read. I can’t wait for the next book – Hazel is adorable and yet, I sense she has a tigress hiding underneath that shy exterior!

Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Laura.
2,588 reviews113 followers
April 28, 2021
***ARC Provided by the Author***

Well, now, wasn't that fun?

Archer and Elise meet and it's clear, from pretty much the beginning, that this is going to be steamy and sexy.

It doesn't disappoint...but then, what else can one expect from a story about a private detective and the head of security for an erotic club?

The thing I love about these books, and this author, is that her books are erotic but also have characters, and a story line, and a romantic connection...which makes the sex even hotter (if that is even possible) as you actually care about the characters as people.

I enjoyed and recommend this title.
Profile Image for Mary Mooney.
2,539 reviews59 followers
April 17, 2021
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
This is book 2 in the Phoenix series and it kinda picks up where book 1 ended.
Archer Westbrook is head of security at the exclusive club and when someone hacks into the system he will find out who it was and why they did it. What he finds out is surprising and also intriguing.
When he meets Elise Fanning, private eye, there is more to her than just what his eyes can see.
When Archer offers Elise a job to help him find out who is targeting the club, she knows it will be hard to keep her walls up. There is something on a deeper level pulling them towards each other.
While Archer is retired Army Special Forces, Elise is an independently strong woman, they seem to clash with every decision.
With one touch from the other, will they give in and give a relationship a chance? Can they figure out who has targeted the club and why?
I am loving this series, it is filled with alpha males, strong women, is hot, with a touch of mystery. Everything you need in a great story. I would recommend reading the first one because you don't want to miss a thing with this series.




Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Avid Reader.
1,752 reviews
April 19, 2021
Keep Me (Phoenix #2) by Stacey Kennedy
4 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Talk about childhood trauma and murder
I was give this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

Archer hates to lose. But, when he’s beaten by Elise at his own game, he knows that she’s the person he needs when someone breeches the club again.

Elise is smart as a whip, caring and wants to get justice for everyone she can. Her associate, Penny is also hilarious and gets the job done with Elise.

Archer and Elise have been dancing around their attraction for a while now and when a case comes up that Archer needs Elise on, it’s the perfect time to get her in the club.

The case is a non-starter. I actually wish we could’ve had a more involved case because it was more filler than anything. But, the chemistry between Archer and Elise will burn your book pages!

Whew they have great chemistry and their friends are rooting for them. It was a fast, steamy read. I can’t wait to for the next book - Hazel is adorable and yet, I sense she has a tigress hiding underneath that shy exterior!
Profile Image for Naomi (aplace_inthesun).
1,168 reviews35 followers
April 20, 2021
KEEP ME by Stacey Kennedy

Archer Westbrook is a tough, no-nonsense security expert (ex-military no less) at a private, elite club for patrons who like to fly under the radar but live on the edge.

He encounters private investigator Elise Fanning online before meeting her IRL, as she successfully hacks into the club’s security system. Archer can’t help but admire her gall and tenacity, plus she’s seemingly immune to his charms.

Archer hires Elise to investigate some questionable club members in an effort to safeguard the club’s standing and reputation. To do so she goes undercover at the club as a patron for one night - a night that has the potential to change both their futures.

The question in Keep Me is whether Elise can put what happens that night aside to go about her business, with her heart and reputation in tact. And whether Archer can accept the stirring of his heart, as it seems the club is no longer enough.

Enemies to lovers, gritty, dark, and confronting taboos - if you’re into closed door romances, frills and flowers this might be a little confronting. The mystery wasn’t earth shattering but was balanced by the loving.

Thank you to Social Butterfly PR for sending me a copy of Keep Me to read and review.
.
Profile Image for Michele McMullen .
2,510 reviews84 followers
April 21, 2021
Keep Me is Archer and Elise's story and I hope you are prepared for the heat this couple is bringing.
Archer Westbrook is a retired military man that his now the chief of security for an exclusive club known as the Phoenix. When someone breaches his internet security imagine his surprise when he finally comes face to face with her.
Elise Fanning is a private investigator and she is smart, sassy, and oh so seductive. She may have proved a point by hacking into the Phoenix secure site but she now has made a very handsome man oh so angry .
Archer and Elise have an immediate connection and it is not a meet cute scenario. It is heat, tension and pure attraction between these two. Yes Archer may be furious at the stunt that Elise pulled but he is more intrigued and captivated by her. What begins as a itch to scratch soon becomes oh so much more. A sexy naughty ride filled with mystery intrigue and oh yes a bit of yummy romance!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
Profile Image for Ali.
165 reviews
October 29, 2025
ok the proposal and the house was unnecessary. like bro I know you could not purchase an engagement ring and a house in the same week on a security guard salary
Profile Image for Jodi - JodiReadsnListens.
1,266 reviews50 followers
May 17, 2021
Keep Me by Stacey Kennedy is book 2 in her Phoenix Series. This book was full of steam and suspense. Once I started this book, I was hooked and could not put it down.

I love that Kennedy makes the female character Elise, in this book a complete independent, confident woman! Elise is a private investigator and knows how to get work done. I love that. However, her connection with Archer was blazing hot! Their first encounter in the book was filled with all the sexual tension! Archer runs security at the Phoenix, and hired Elise to help investigate a case concerning the club. Archer is a strong, confident character, that also has a tender side. I just love when authors create characters who are not looking for love, but end up finding it anyway!

Overall, I enjoyed this book, and I am anxious for where book 3 will lead us. There were various twists and turns with added steam in between! This book was a wild, hot ride filled with just the right amount of lust, love, and suspense!
Profile Image for Elaine Lucky.
1,121 reviews120 followers
July 27, 2024
Elise and Archer are still butting heads and getting under each other's skin that started in book #1 Watch Me. When she circumvented Phoenix security, Archer was pissed and intrigued. The two of them have an attraction and a disdain toward one another that keeps them on their toes. Rhys has Archer hire Elise to help investigate who snuck a camera past security without being detected. Elise has to come to a show at the club to assess the suspects and Archer is performing. A night of passion has them in a wary "I don't do relationships" mode where they both uncover past hurts that's shaped the way they see love along with their differing views of Phoenix. A wild ride of emotions, lust, & humor. The interaction with the group of friends (Rhys, Hunt, Keiran, Zoey, Hazel, Penny also develops more with more information setting up the next book.
Profile Image for Maddy Martinelli.
404 reviews4 followers
December 31, 2022


You can read my review of Keep Me on my blog, here: https://thepaperworlds.blogspot.com/2....

You can read my review of Watch Me on my blog, here: https://thepaperworlds.blogspot.com/2....

This is a spoiler-free review!

We pick right up from where we left off in Watch Me, now following Archer and Elise as they continue to instigate one another like their lives depend on it -- I can hear the wedding bells already. Almost immediately, Elise and Archer are basically going at it without actually going it at it, as Elise works on a job for Archer investigating a new member at the club after some suspicious activity went done a few days prior.

The smut definitely hits different in this book compared to Watch Me, and I can't tell if it's because we did get that mild build up of tension between Elise and Archer in the first book, or if just my love for the teasing-each-other-because-they-like-each-other trope. The way they are both so similar to one another yet constantly butt heads makes me love the pair even more, and their banter is just so entertaining to read.

Kennedy did a good job balancing plot and smut, as well as spending a decent amount of time developing the backgrounds of Elise and Archer. We get details of both of their past traumas that heavily influence why they do the jobs that they do, and get to see how they open up to one another about how they are still affected by their pasts.

Zoey, Hazel, and Elise's friendship really stood out throughout the book, and readers are able to witness how interconnected their lives are, especially with their involvement with the boys and their lives as well. It was great to read about the friend group that had a solid foundation, but that also did not have them so dependent on one another that they could not function without each other.

Another whirlwind romance to follow Zoey and Rhys -- but on the bright side, they knew each other for longer than Zoey and Rhys knew each other before they got engaged. I definitely think Elise and Archer, while still having a fast romance, did have that foundation between them that allowed their story to still be as raw as Zoey and Rhys, but have that extra cushioning that let you go into the book with justified expectations.

We are able to see both characters grow into themselves before they give in to one another, and the plot was just as fun to read as were Elise and Archer's more intimate scenes together. I was certainly in the mood to read something a little more spicy, but wanted to have at least the backbone of a plot, and I was not disappointed. Kennedy sets up the next book at the very end of the epilogue, much like Watch Me, and I plan on seeing this series through until the end.

Another quick read in the Phoenix series that leaves the reader wanting me but satisfied at the same time. I love a good interconnected standalone series that keeps the other characters involved but not so much that you feel like you're reading part two of another couple's story.

You can catch up with me and my current reads by friending me on Goodreads (maddymartinelli), Instagram (@thepaperworlds), Twitter (@thepaperworlds), and following this blog in order to stay up-to-date with any reviews, blog tours, and more!

Profile Image for Books, Booze & Bon Voyage (Krista Webster) .
1,097 reviews33 followers
May 7, 2021
Keep Me is a frenemies to lovers story about Elise Fanning and Archer Westbrook. Book 2 in the Phoenix series which can easily be read as a standalone.

Archer is all alpha and extremely handsome. He is ex special forces and now Head of Security at the Phoenix. Owned by Rhys Harrington, the Phoenix is a sex club for NYC’s elite. A safe and private place for their voyeuristic, erotic lifestyle. The story starts when someone has hacked into the firewall of the club’s security system, Archer is furious over the breach and determined to find out who the culprit was.

Elise is a strong, ballsy woman with a wicked sense of humour and great personality. She is an excellent Private Investigator and was the one who helped her friend Zoey Parker hack into the Phoenix. Watch Me #1 in the Phoenix Series tells the story of Zoey’s revenge plans and her love story with Rhys.

Archer is infuriated that Elise was the hacker but very impressed with her skills. They can’t stand each other but he realises she’d be a worthwhile addition to the security team. He arranges to meet her for a drink to discuss the recent threat on the club to see if she will help. Much to his annoyance Archer finds that he is attracted to the sassy and snarky PI. She manages to constantly outsmart him which makes him curious about her and really sparks his interest.

Archer enjoys working for Rhys and as well as looking after the security he also enjoys taking part in the club shows with his friends, Kieran Black and Hunt Walker. Elsie doesn’t understand Zoey’s enjoyment of the Phoenix but agrees to attending one night to help Archer with the problem with one of the members. Archer teases and tempts her during the show while she watches totally engrossed. She is now intrigued with him but embarrassed about her reactions to the show.

This night changes everything between them and is the start of their relationship. Their banter is great and she has such fun annoying Archer, pushing his buttons like no-one ever has. I loved how she so easily irritated him and was always playing games with him. Their chemistry is sizzling and it was amusing how they both want the other but didn’t want to fully admit it. Elise likes a no attachment lifestyle due to her childhood experiences so fights her feeling for Archer. He has seen and experienced horrific things while serving his country so has built up walls to protect himself.

While investigating the attack on the club’s privacy and her own PI clients, they grow close and have to decided what they want from each other and if they have a future. With all the suspense and intrigue interwoven with the sexual tension and desire, the author has written a really interesting book to keep the reader on their toes. I liked the strong friendship the three women have and it is the same with the four men. The author has made each of them flawed in some way but she shows how meeting the right person can heal and mend. Zoey once told Elise that the Phoenix was life changing and can change the course of your life, making things better, stronger and happier. Will it have that effect on her? Will they sort themselves out romantically and while they are at it, can they solve the cases?

I loved the ending as it was so appropriate for this couple, made me smile and I felt it showed how far they had both come. The result of the cases weren't as dramatic as I thought they'd be but we do get the start of another threat to the club to be resolved. In the epilogue we are given a snippet about the next book in the series with Elise’s roommate Hazel Rose and her crush on Kieran. I am sure whatever they have experienced in the past will be as heartbreaking and compelling as we had with this couple.


Merged review:

Keep Me is a frenemies to lovers story about Elise Fanning and Archer Westbrook. Book 2 in the Phoenix series which can easily be read as a standalone.
Archer is all alpha and extremely handsome. He is ex special forces and now Head of Security at the Phoenix. Owned by Rhys Harrington, the Phoenix is a sex club for NYC’s elite. A safe and private place for their voyeuristic, erotic lifestyle. The story starts when someone has hacked into the firewall of the club’s security system, Archer is furious over the breach and determined to find out who the culprit was.
Elise is a strong, ballsy woman with a wicked sense of humour and great personality. She is an excellent Private Investigator and was the one who helped her friend Zoey Parker hack into the Phoenix. Watch Me #1 in the Phoenix Series tells the story of Zoey’s revenge plans and her love story with Rhys.

Archer is infuriated that Elise was the hacker but very impressed with her skills. They can’t stand each other but he realises she’d be a worthwhile addition to the security team. He arranges to meet her for a drink to discuss the recent threat on the club to see if she will help. Much to his annoyance Archer finds that he is attracted to the sassy and snarky PI. She manages to constantly outsmart him which makes him curious about her and really sparks his interest.

Archer enjoys working for Rhys and as well as looking after the security he also enjoys taking part in the club shows with his friends, Kieran Black and Hunt Walker. Elsie doesn’t understand Zoey’s enjoyment of the Phoenix but agrees to attending one night to help Archer with the problem with one of the members. Archer teases and tempts her during the show while she watches totally engrossed. She is now intrigued with him but embarrassed about her reactions to the show.

This night changes everything between them and is the start of their relationship. Their banter is great and she has such fun annoying Archer, pushing his buttons like no-one ever has. I loved how she so easily irritated him and was always playing games with him. Their chemistry is sizzling and it was amusing how they both want the other but didn’t want to fully admit it. Elise likes a no attachment lifestyle due to her childhood experiences so fights her feeling for Archer. He has seen and experienced horrific things while serving his country so has built up walls to protect himself.

While investigating the attack on the club’s privacy and her own PI clients, they grow close and have to decided what they want from each other and if they have a future. With all the suspense and intrigue interwoven with the sexual tension and desire, the author has written a really interesting book to keep the reader on their toes. I liked the strong friendship the three women have and it is the same with the four men. The author has made each of them flawed in some way but she shows how meeting the right person can heal and mend. Zoey once told Elise that the Phoenix was life changing and can change the course of your life, making things better, stronger and happier. Will it have that effect on her? Will they sort themselves out romantically and while they are at it, can they solve the cases?

I loved the ending as it was so appropriate for this couple, made me smile and I felt it showed how far they had both come. The result of the cases weren't as dramatic as I thought they'd be but we do get the start of another threat to the club to be resolved. In the epilogue we are given a snippet about the next book in the series with Elise’s roommate Hazel Rose and her crush on Kieran. I am sure whatever they have experienced in the past will be as heartbreaking and compelling as we had with this couple.
412 reviews10 followers
March 2, 2025
Preliminary Review

There's a strange coldness to this book. There's a distance between the reader and the story. Often, I can fall into a story, almost like a secondary character. But this one, like the first book, feels like something you observe, instead of experiencing.

The time period and culture also feel off balance. For example, the female characters drink cosmopolitans. They meet their friends to throw axes. A cigar bar figures heavily in numerous scenes. What year is this supposed to take place? I'm getting strong early 2000s with some Carrie Bradshaw tossed into the mix. That doesn't fit in with the technology that's often mentioned.

And...the technology doesn't add up. A large part of this plot is about an uber exclusive $ex club and a clear hack, which has caused a big problem. This club's members are billionaires and mega rich/powerful people. Yet the head of security isn't quite cutting it. Someone got in with a camera disguised as a gem in a mask. But after much inspection, the camera wasn't revealed. Later, a weirdly young PI spots the camera, which she explains can be purchased on Amazon. This means a hella exclusive $ex club for the oligarch class can't keep up with tech available to anyone on Amazon? Hmmm. This doesn't fit into this story about obscenely rich, $exually free folks with access to experiences 99.9% of us can't even imagine.

I'm not the fact checker. But it's jarring to read something, or a bunch of somethings, that interrupt a story when they stick out or don't fit. It breaks up the rhythm of the story and shuts off the suspension of disbelief necessary to read a story like this.

The whole "mystery" part is just a boring distraction that isn't connected to the main characters, the "club," or even the romance plot.

And speaking of the romance part...suddenly at the end, there are proclamation of love, all is well, and the HEA is done. There really isn't much romance at all here, just 2 people who have intense lust, some damage, and typical fear about coupling up. That's it.

I'm not sure about further reading of this series.
Profile Image for Confessions of a Bookaholic.
830 reviews39 followers
April 16, 2021
A million times better than I was expecting!!!!

Keep Me is the second installment in Stacey Kennedy's Phoenix series. I have not read the first book in the series but I think it is safe to say these can be read as standalones (I do want to hurry up and read the first book now).

Elise Fanning is a PI in NYC who witnessed tragedy at a young age and has lived by certain life codes since then. She recently managed to breach the security for the elite club, Phoenix which put their head of security on her tail. She was merely helping her best friend out but little did she know that this stunt would alter her life forever.

Archer Westbrook is the head of security at Phoenix and is completely in awe of Elise and the fact that she was able to breach the club's security. He puts one of his guys up to finding out everything they can about Elise. When an issue arises at the club he enlists her help because he knows she is the best at what she does.

Elise and Archer are two in the same and yet different. Neither of them believe in commitment for different reasons but they feel the intense attraction buzzing between the two of them. One night at Phoenix changes things for them a little at a time. They both must learn to let down their walls and open up to the idea of a forever with each other. Archer is not the best at communicating and has his work cut out for him if he wants to keep the woman he loves.

This was my first Stacey Kennedy book and I really liked it. I didn't simply read this book....I devoured it and cannot wait for the next installment. Along with her main characters she sets up the next two characters for their story. I would probably suggest reading Watch Me (book one) but it isn't absolutely necessary.

****I was given an advanced copy of this in exchange for an honest review****
216 reviews
January 5, 2024
Obálka: 4*
Hlavní postavy: 5*
Děj: 5*
@grada_cz @nakladatelstvimetafora
#spoluprace

Ještě než se vrhnu na hodnocení obsahu, zastavím se u obálky. Víte, že jsem obálkofil a proto vás možná zarazí, že takový styl obálky hodnotím tak vysoko. Je to jednoduché, mám ráda, když si erotická kniha svou obálkou na nic nehraje. Nehraje barvami a kreslenými postavami, nesnaží se o romantické pojetí a jednoduše naservíruje o co v této knize jde.

Co se týká obsahu, není to jen erotika, nahá těla a sex. To, co dělá sérii Phoenix jedinečnou a jinou než klasické erotické čtení jsou celkem propracované dějové linky, které dělají příběh čtenářsky poutavý. V tomto konkrétním díle jsem přemýšlela spolu se soukromou detektivkou o pohnutkách páru, který zamotal hlavu nejen jí, ale také šéfovi bezpečnosti samotného klubu.

Já je odhadla už v počátku, hlavním hrdinům toto chvíli trvalo. Vyčítat jim to ovšem nebudete, protože se těšíte na každou chvilku, kdy se zase setkají.

Nebudu vám totiž nic nalhávat, i když má kniha pěknou dějovou linku, sexuálními scénami je nabitá. Autorka je mistrní popisu, erotiku servíruje bez nechutných výrazů, smyslně a poutavě. Je to snad jediná autorka, která dokáže i svlékání kalhot udělat napínavé. Neobvyklé prostředí erotického klubu pak dělá scény ještě zajímavější a nejednou je čtenáři při čtení horko.

Čtení o klubu Phoenix je prostě návykové - svědčí o tom, že nyní kroužím kolem dalšího dílu a přemlouvám se, ať si ho nepřečtu hned.

Pokud máte doma čtenářku, která holduje erotickým knihám, musíte tuto sérii pořídit k Vánocům. Věřte mi, že svůj vděk vám projeví ještě ten večer - já tuto knihu totiž přečetla za dvě hodiny. No a to by mohl být pak skvělý dárek i pro vás ne? 😇

Celkové hodnocení: 5* z 5*
Profile Image for Nanasbookreviews.
1,816 reviews52 followers
April 14, 2021
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Keep Me by Stacey Kennedy is an erotic novel. It's the second book from the Phoenix series.

Elise Fanning, a private investigator, had breached the security system of Phoenix, the ultra-exclusive, upscale sex club. Archer Westbrook was furious about it. Two months later they made a truce since her best friend Zoey was engaged with his best friend Rhys. Archer had a job for her that included members of the club. She had to get in and investigate herself. From the beginning,
it was obvious that there was sexual tension between them so he created a scene to explore it. It was an explosive experience that he couldn't wait to repeat. A break-in and the minimum exposure of the club had them working closely and they got to know each other better.
They quickly were falling for each other but Elise's past kept her from moving forward. Could Archer break her walls and convince her to give them a chance?

It's such a sexy and romantic story. This one is about the head of security, Archer Westbrook, and the PI Elise Fanning. From the first book, it was pretty obvious that those two would be explosive since they batted heads constantly. I liked the little action and mystery that it had but those sex scenes were hot as hell. Especially the first one at the club, panty-melting for sure. I loved the characters and their stories. She had a tragic past and he had a heroic one. I truly appreciate that each book of this series has a totally different plot, it's refreshing and not tiring at all.

I am in love with the Phoenix series and I can't wait to read the next one. I will rate this with 4.5 stars.
Profile Image for Meredith.
692 reviews15 followers
April 21, 2021
Keep Me is the first book by Stacey Kennedy that I have read and I was not disappointed by this book. While Keep Me is book two in her Phoenix series I didn't feel like I didn't understand what was going on or that there was something big that I was missing. There is nothing I dislike more in reading a book in a series that claims to be a standalone and you still have no idea what's going on. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters that Stacey has created and can't wait to see what happens with the next book(s) she is doing with this series.
Elise is one of the best PIs in town and a pretty good hacker too, so good that she was able to hack into the secret sex club, Phoenix's mainframe in no time. Because of that hack a lot has changed in her life, one of her best friends is now engaged to the owner of said club, and now she has a new job for the club and has the annoying head of security, Archer, popping up all over the place bothering her.
Archer hired Elise because he knows she's the best and he'll figure out if there has been a leak at his club when a member breaks one of their rules. When they start working together he's still a little sore that she was able to hack into his system, but he soon realizes just how good she is when she is able to pick the member out of a crowd without being told they were the one she was investigating.
What starts as a one time thing quickly becomes a fling and then so much more. But both Archer and Elise have baggage that they have to move on from before they can be commit to one another.
Profile Image for Anita Byars.
1,422 reviews14 followers
April 20, 2021
Insanely Sexy & H-O-T!!! When I say hot, I mean smoking hot, toe curling, turn you into a melting puddle of goo! And it’s positively brimming with clench-your-thighs-together chemistry, that will melt your heart...and other things. Made me want to jump through the pages!! OMG I am loving this series and I need the next story NOW!!!

Archer Westbrook is head of security at Phoenix, a sex club that catered to the elite of New York City, and ever since Elise Fanning a private investigator breached their firewall, these two have been fighting off a fierce push and pull attraction. So when the club’s security is breached again, Archer hires Elise to check out a new member. But when Elise finds herself under Archer’s intense scrutiny during a scene at Phoenix she finds herself drawn to him, captivated, and the animalistic, heat and passion that follows is pure, mind blowing! But these two still have to work closely together to figure out what is going on, and who is behind the security breach for the sake of the club. Will their sizzling connection survive? You don’t want to miss this one!

Get ready to Swoon harder than you’ve ever swooned before, I loved reading their love story! So full of suspense and intrigue, twist and turn, passion and heat, love and a HEA! An absolute MUST READ!

Gifted with an advance copy for an honest review!
Profile Image for Erin Lewis.
6,194 reviews221 followers
April 19, 2021
4 Star review of Keep Me (Phoenix #2) by Stacey Kennedy
Book two in the Phoenix series from Stacey Kennedy and this was a sizzling read.I was intrigued when I first read the blurb for Keep Me. Elise Fanning is a private investigator who hacks into the Phoenix Club to help her best friend gain entry but what she doesn’t count on is the club’s head of security Archer Westbtook confronting her.
Archer is intrigued by Elise, she is smart, sassy and feisty and she is not afraid to give as good as she gets. In fact she may well be the perfect woman for him. The chemistry sizzles between them and as it builds it becomes too hard to ignore. He also admires the fact that Elise was able to hack in to a system that he thought was unhackable.
When another security breach occurs, arch asks Elise to help him investigate. Of course the only problem is that she will have to attend the club but will she survive it? There were some surprising twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Elise has a lot of baggage from her past. Can Archer break down the walls that Elise has built up? Can he convince her to take a chance on them?
One click and find out.
Profile Image for Sarah - Vanilla Twist Reads.
325 reviews11 followers
April 21, 2021
Once again Stacey has the pages burning.

Archer Westbrook head security of the exclusive Phoenix club is left seething when someone breaks through the clubs security not only because they got one up on him but also because it puts the clubs members identify at risk and this is unacceptable.

Elise Fanning is a top New York PI but by hacking the security system of the Phoenix to help her friend she unknowingly put herself in the crosshairs of the clubs head of security.

Archer finds himself in need of help on a club matter so he approaches Elise for help much to her surprise but she has a condition of her own she wants to attend the exclusive Phoenix so she can get a feel for who is causing the trouble, little does she know that she would end up being part of the nights entertainment.

The chemistry between Archer and Elise can be felt with each page turn but the emotional feelings are stronger. Each of them has never been in a relationship, only friends with benefits but can they take the leap, will they accept that there is more going on between them.

This book is definitely 5 stars, I do recommend you read Watch Me first as we get glimpses of the friends throughout.
998 reviews36 followers
April 27, 2021
Archer thought his security was the best but when Elise hacks her way through his system Archer must find out how. A sexy and strong woman is just what Archer likes but is Elise more than he can handle or is she just what he needs? I enjoyed being along for the ride as these two figured things out. Archer is as alpha as they come but that does not scare Elise. As the two begin to work together to figure out who has the club in their sites the sexual tension cannot be denied. Archer and Elise are good together but can the two find a way to a real relationship?

Both characters have their own pasts and hurts to deal with alongside their new emerging emotions. The attraction that they have is strong and will not be ignored. Archer and Elise work well together and I loved seeing them find their way both in and out of the bedroom. It was fun to see them go from fighting each other to fighting their attraction. Their story pulled me right in and kept me interested all the way to the end. Once again, the author gives readers well developed characters and a good plot that grabs your attention.
Profile Image for Lisa Petty (Book Bangers Blog).
2,294 reviews20 followers
April 20, 2021
One night is what they said, but sometimes one night just isn't enough. These two have butted heads on more than one occasion. I mean Elise did break through the firewall of Phoenix and man was Archer more than upset. Now he needs her help and with that help comes a complication neither of them saw coming. Archer is about to break down some walls and Elise is trying to keep them up nice and tight. When they stumble upon things that are going on in Phoenix these two will have to fight tooth and nail to figure out the why of it. Elise being a PI for sure helps with a friendly hacker who is a crack-up. Archer will protect the one person he has grown feelings for, but he will also protect his friends and business. However, can these two protect each other before one of them becomes a casualty? I really loved this author and I will continue to read her book and this series. I will say this I didn't read book one and that was okay, but I will be going back to read it. Enjoy a story that will give you everything you are looking for.
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