I read a few chapters of this book, but I did not finish it. I loved McGarry's previous books but the characters in this story did not work for me at all. There was a bit too much melodrama and the romance did not feel real to me. I will, however, purchase this book for my library as I have a large McGarry fan base.

McGarry knows how to write angst, hardships, and emotional turmoil. Take Me On went in a slightly different direction than the previous three books, but with many pleasant surprises. I love how McGarry takes her characters on an emotional roller coaster, allowing them to learn and grow organically. Every word brings out an emotion, and every one important as the last.

This particular book went a little darker, a little sadder, and maybe even a little more twisted. But what I always learn from McGarry's books is that at the end of the tunnel, there is a light.

Three stars: A typical NA romance with lots of drama and angst. However, it does have memorable character and strong family dynamics.

Haley is a champion kickboxer, but she will not fight again. Haley gave up kickboxing after a horrible night with her then boyfriend. Now she is traumatized and broken, trying to survive. To make matters worse, Haley and her family are living with their abusive uncle ever since her father lost his job. Things just keep getting worse for Haley.
West is a privileged rich boy with a big chip on his shoulder. After his sister, Rachel, is injured in an accident, West loses it. He gets in one fight too many, and soon finds himself trying to make it on his own in the big scary world. Haley and West’s paths cross one night, and this chance meeting will soon change everything. When West sees Haley again, he ends up getting himself into a martial arts fight in order to protect Haley’s honor. Will West win the fight or will both Haley and West go down in flames?
What I Liked:
*Take Me On is another installment in McGarry’s wildly popular Pushing the Limits series. If you are a fan of NA books with drama, angst, romance and broken characters, you will enjoy Haley and West’s story.
*Haley was a terrific character. She is struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, she is broken, damaged, unable to fight. She blames herself for what happened, and she refuses to open up to anyone. I admired Haley, and I couldn’t help but to cheer her on as she clawed her way back. The quality I admired the most in Haley was her fierce loyalty to her family. She sacrifices so much, even her own health and sanity to protect those she loves the most. Thankfully, Haley finally opens up and begins to heal. I loved her vulnerability and her courage. She is an admirable character.
*I was most impressed with the strong focus on family. Both Haley and West are fiercely devoted to their families. I loved how the story spotlighted the brother and sister bonds.
*The romance is one that moves a bit fast, but it has everything you love. I liked that it was based on friendship, trust and security. It is one of healing and redemption, and it has all the feels. I appreciated how well the whole sex thing was handled.
*I am a huge fan of Mrs. Collins, the school counselor. She makes an appearance in this one. Love her.
*The ending is just right. I actually appreciated that not everything ends all happily ever after. Yes, things are much better, but just like in life, you don’t always get your cake and get to eat it too. Haley and West both have many obstacles to overcome, and I thought the author handled the ending well.
And The Not So Much:
*West was a tough sell for me. I know many fans will be swooning over this bad boy, but he got on my nerves. I got tired of him mouthing off and not thinking before saying hurtful things. There were two different instances when his dad sat down with him and really tried to talk to him, and West decided to take the low road. Yes, he grows and matures, but it was a hard road for me with him. I did however, appreciate that he decided to stand on his own two feet and not continue to take the easy road.
*The parents are pretty awful. West’s parents are self centered. I will give credit to West’s dad, he really does try. The mother is nothing more than window dressing. Haley’s dad is such a disappointment. I kept waiting for him to stand up and be a man and redeem himself, sadly he left me shaking my head.
*This book has been sitting in my pile for almost four years. Perhaps if I had read it four years ago, it would have made more of an impact, but sadly, I felt like I had been there done that with this one. It is the typical NA romance, lots of drama andangst all centered around a romance that heals all. If you are a fan of NA romance, you will enjoy this, but don’t expect it to be unique.
*What is the deal with Abby? She is driving me nuts?

Take Me On is a NA romance with all the drama, angst and romance you expect in this genre. I did like the characters, especially Haley, and I appreciated the focus on brother and sister relationships. Unfortunately, there was nothing original with this one. It is the typical NA romance. If you are fan of NA, check this out.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.

Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.

I just couldn't get into this story. No rating or review. Thank you for sending the book.