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RLU #4
Catch Me
Marcela
Starting off senior year with a broken heart wasn’t what I expected.
I thought I’d have time to heal until the reason for my heartbreak shows up on campus walking hand in hand with my best friend.
Everything seems to be going wrong until Theo Miller, the star quarterback of RLU’s football team, suggests we fake date for revenge.
And it seems like an easy solution until pretending so much bends the line between what’s fake and what’s undeniably real
While the way he makes me feel is unlike anything I’ve ever felt before, I don’t know if falling is worth the risk of having my heart broken again.
Theo
Everything in my life has led to this moment—senior year at RLU and waiting to be drafted for the NFL.
This moment in my life should be the most exciting in theory, yet I couldn’t think of something I despise more.
Giving it up sounds easy enough, but I’m too afraid of breaking my dad’s heart when life has already been so cruel to him
Faking it for others is something I’ve grown accustomed to, except with her.
Marcela Bass is the only one who has ever seen the real me, and when the opportunity presents itself, I can’t pass it up.
While we might be fake dating, I won’t stop trying until she’s really mine.
Starting off senior year with a broken heart wasn’t what I expected.
I thought I’d have time to heal until the reason for my heartbreak shows up on campus walking hand in hand with my best friend.
Everything seems to be going wrong until Theo Miller, the star quarterback of RLU’s football team, suggests we fake date for revenge.
And it seems like an easy solution until pretending so much bends the line between what’s fake and what’s undeniably real
While the way he makes me feel is unlike anything I’ve ever felt before, I don’t know if falling is worth the risk of having my heart broken again.
Theo
Everything in my life has led to this moment—senior year at RLU and waiting to be drafted for the NFL.
This moment in my life should be the most exciting in theory, yet I couldn’t think of something I despise more.
Giving it up sounds easy enough, but I’m too afraid of breaking my dad’s heart when life has already been so cruel to him
Faking it for others is something I’ve grown accustomed to, except with her.
Marcela Bass is the only one who has ever seen the real me, and when the opportunity presents itself, I can’t pass it up.
While we might be fake dating, I won’t stop trying until she’s really mine.
316 pages, ebook
First published January 28, 2025
71 people are currently reading
670 people want to read
About the author
Carlie Jean
6 books496 followersHi! My name is Carlie Jean, a girl who loves to write new adult romances featuring protective males and strong heroines with a side of spice, tension, laughter, and a hefty dose of scenes that give readers butterflies.
You usually can find me cozied up at home, either writing or reading. And when I’m not being a couch potato, I enjoy walking my dog, playing volleyball and baseball, and traveling.
You usually can find me cozied up at home, either writing or reading. And when I’m not being a couch potato, I enjoy walking my dog, playing volleyball and baseball, and traveling.
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March 10, 2025
#Review: *Catch Me* - Carlie Jean - ARC [18+]
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️
Back again to this RLU series🥰. Thank you so much Carlie and Good Girls Pr for this lovely copy!
Theo and Marcela formed a pretty cute friendship after sharing a class together. But for Theo was something more than that. He was mesmerized by Marcela even from the 1st time he saw her. Only she had her heart recently broken, when she caught her ex boyfriend, Hunter, with her best friend, Ruby.
Marcela thought she left them behind but both had just transfered to the same University as her and now she lives the betrayal all over again. But this time, she had sweet Theo in her corner, who suggested to fake date to show them they don't affect Marcela anymore. Can this relationship stay at a platonic level with everything Theo was feeling?
I can confess that I adoooreed Theo!😍 I just love when the boy falls first and harder, mixed with a bit of good obsessive part. He was such a wonderful fake boyfriend, that even Marcela had to question herself about her feelings. It was an impossible mission for her to deny the insane chemistry they had! I looved the banter and tension so, so much! On top of that, I really liked those private lessons Marcela received from Theo, to help her with her writing.
Just give me a book with sports romance, fake dating and a gold retriever male character and I will adore it! I had such a wonderful time following this cute pair, to see how Theo swept Marcela off her feet🤭. Go read it please!
✨Tropes
#FakeDating
#FriendsToLovers
#GoldenRetriever
#CinnamonRoll
#HeFallsFirst
#HeFallsHarder
#MentalHealth
#SportsRomance
#Football
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️
Back again to this RLU series🥰. Thank you so much Carlie and Good Girls Pr for this lovely copy!
Theo and Marcela formed a pretty cute friendship after sharing a class together. But for Theo was something more than that. He was mesmerized by Marcela even from the 1st time he saw her. Only she had her heart recently broken, when she caught her ex boyfriend, Hunter, with her best friend, Ruby.
Marcela thought she left them behind but both had just transfered to the same University as her and now she lives the betrayal all over again. But this time, she had sweet Theo in her corner, who suggested to fake date to show them they don't affect Marcela anymore. Can this relationship stay at a platonic level with everything Theo was feeling?
I can confess that I adoooreed Theo!😍 I just love when the boy falls first and harder, mixed with a bit of good obsessive part. He was such a wonderful fake boyfriend, that even Marcela had to question herself about her feelings. It was an impossible mission for her to deny the insane chemistry they had! I looved the banter and tension so, so much! On top of that, I really liked those private lessons Marcela received from Theo, to help her with her writing.
Just give me a book with sports romance, fake dating and a gold retriever male character and I will adore it! I had such a wonderful time following this cute pair, to see how Theo swept Marcela off her feet🤭. Go read it please!
✨Tropes
#FakeDating
#FriendsToLovers
#GoldenRetriever
#CinnamonRoll
#HeFallsFirst
#HeFallsHarder
#MentalHealth
#SportsRomance
#Football
December 6, 2025
♫: 𝑳𝒆𝒕 𝑴𝒆 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒀𝒐𝒖 (𝑼𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒍 𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝑳𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏 𝒕𝒐 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇)- 𝑵𝒆-𝒀𝒐
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
It’s been a fat minute since I did a full review on Goodreads. It’s good to be back.
*crickets*
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
This is my first time reading sports romance and let me tell you… this will be my last until further notice.
⋆. 𐙚˚࿔ 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐀 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐒 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
ׂ╰┈➤ (𝘧𝘤: 𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘩 𝘏𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘰𝘯)
I can’t be mad at her for something she didn’t know about but it’s makes me mad that she didn’t know Theo was in love with her and she hurting him without knowing! I can’t be mad her but it hurts my heart for Theo. She’s alright overall nothing bad. I like her character development throughout the story. She was quiet and shy in the beginning but then throughout the book you see her being confident and finally happy.
⋆. 𐙚˚࿔ 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐎 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐑 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
╰┈➤ (𝘧𝘤: 𝘋𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘥 𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘵)
This is the boyfriend you bring home to your mother! The golden retriever boyfriend! This man was down bad for Marcela he had to hurt himself being in a a fake relationship with her! It hurt me when Theo wanted to be closer to Marcela but she had to put a stop bc it’s a fake relationship! It hurt me when he had to play football knowing he hated every minute of it! But he did it to please his dad! He such an amazing person and boyfriend! I need someone like him!!! Where can I find a Theo who listens to my problems, listen to the book I’m reading, brings flowers whenever we see each other, and looks at me like I’m their whole world!!!
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
This book was alright. I saw an edit on instagram and thought it looked interesting.
There was barely any mention of football and like in depth of the game. Is that what usually happens in sports romance?
I don’t like reading college romance. It’s not for me.
I’m glad the Theo’s dad thought about being a coach for football. I don’t know why it took him that long to make that his career…
I’m thinking what else to say about this book but my mind is blank.
The side characters were interesting to read. I won’t read their stories but still interesting.
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
Overall 2.75/5 stars ★
This book was alright but wasn’t my favorite.
I’m now going to be in a reading slump!
This book is my 30th book I read this year which means I COMPLETED MY READING GOALS EVERYONE CHEER!!!
*crickets*
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
It’s been a fat minute since I did a full review on Goodreads. It’s good to be back.
*crickets*
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
This is my first time reading sports romance and let me tell you… this will be my last until further notice.
⋆. 𐙚˚࿔ 𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐀 𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐒 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
ׂ╰┈➤ (𝘧𝘤: 𝘓𝘦𝘢𝘩 𝘏𝘢𝘭𝘵𝘰𝘯)
I can’t be mad at her for something she didn’t know about but it’s makes me mad that she didn’t know Theo was in love with her and she hurting him without knowing! I can’t be mad her but it hurts my heart for Theo. She’s alright overall nothing bad. I like her character development throughout the story. She was quiet and shy in the beginning but then throughout the book you see her being confident and finally happy.
⋆. 𐙚˚࿔ 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐎 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐋𝐄𝐑 𝜗𝜚˚⋆
╰┈➤ (𝘧𝘤: 𝘋𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘥 𝘊𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘵)
This is the boyfriend you bring home to your mother! The golden retriever boyfriend! This man was down bad for Marcela he had to hurt himself being in a a fake relationship with her! It hurt me when Theo wanted to be closer to Marcela but she had to put a stop bc it’s a fake relationship! It hurt me when he had to play football knowing he hated every minute of it! But he did it to please his dad! He such an amazing person and boyfriend! I need someone like him!!! Where can I find a Theo who listens to my problems, listen to the book I’m reading, brings flowers whenever we see each other, and looks at me like I’m their whole world!!!
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
This book was alright. I saw an edit on instagram and thought it looked interesting.
There was barely any mention of football and like in depth of the game. Is that what usually happens in sports romance?
I don’t like reading college romance. It’s not for me.
I’m glad the Theo’s dad thought about being a coach for football. I don’t know why it took him that long to make that his career…
I’m thinking what else to say about this book but my mind is blank.
The side characters were interesting to read. I won’t read their stories but still interesting.
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒✧˚.🎀༘⋆
Overall 2.75/5 stars ★
This book was alright but wasn’t my favorite.
I’m now going to be in a reading slump!
This book is my 30th book I read this year which means I COMPLETED MY READING GOALS EVERYONE CHEER!!!
*crickets*
Read
December 6, 2024dev editing🫶🏽
March 8, 2025
I absolutely adore Theo & Marcela. 🫶🏼 They are so cute together and very spicy.
I love a good fake dating trope in a romance book and this one was great!! The ending was adorable and the epilogue was so good. I love the bonus scenes, I loved seeing a glimpse into the future of all the characters together.
Thank you to Good Girls PR for the digital arc of this book in exchange for my honest reviews!!
I love a good fake dating trope in a romance book and this one was great!! The ending was adorable and the epilogue was so good. I love the bonus scenes, I loved seeing a glimpse into the future of all the characters together.
Thank you to Good Girls PR for the digital arc of this book in exchange for my honest reviews!!
March 6, 2025
4.25⭐️
February 21, 2025
3 ⭐️
Thank you to Good Girls PR and Carlie for the opportunity to read an advance copy. Ahh, I can’t believe that this series has come to an end. It’s been a journey following these characters, watching them grow and navigate their relationships. While I enjoyed aspects of Theo and Marcela’s story, I was left feeling a little underwhelmed in some areas.
Theo and Marcela have been friends for a while, and it’s been interesting to see their interactions over the past three books. Theo has been quietly obsessed with Marcela since freshman year, though she was in a relationship so nothing came of it. Fast forward to their senior year, Marcela is now single, having learned that her boyfriend has been cheating on her.
When the opportunity presents itself to pose as her fake boyfriend, Theo doesn’t hesitate. He’s always been drawn to her, but Marcela has been oblivious to his feelings, so this set-up was the perfect chance for him to get close to her.
This was a classic fake dating romance—the popular athletic boy and the shy, book-obsessed girl. While I usually love this trope, I was expecting a bit more tension between them. Their friendship was already somewhat established, but the way their romance developed felt a little rushed. I’d have liked to see more build-up, especially in terms of their emotional connection.
Theo was incredibly patient and attentive towards Marcela, which was really nice to see, give how her previous relationship was, but their chemistry lacked the depth I was hoping for. There were moments that were sweet, but I wanted more of a push-and-pull dynamic, something to make their relationship progression feel more earned. I also think they could have spent more time working on their fake dating arrangement—those moments are some of the best parts of the trope for me, but they felt a bit underdeveloped. It felt as if they were putting it on, just because Hunter and Ruby were present.
That said, one thing Carlie always does well is cultural representation, and Marcela’s story was no different. I really enjoyed seeing the small but meaningful details that made her background feel authentic. The found family aspect was also a lovely touch, something that has been a consistent theme throughout the series, too.
Overall, this was a nice conclusion to the series, but I just wanted a little more from the romance. It had the potential to be really fake dating romance, but the rushed pacing and lack of tension held it back for me. That being said, if you’ve enjoyed the series so far, it’s still worth reading to see how everything wraps up.
Thank you to Good Girls PR and Carlie for the opportunity to read an advance copy. Ahh, I can’t believe that this series has come to an end. It’s been a journey following these characters, watching them grow and navigate their relationships. While I enjoyed aspects of Theo and Marcela’s story, I was left feeling a little underwhelmed in some areas.
Theo and Marcela have been friends for a while, and it’s been interesting to see their interactions over the past three books. Theo has been quietly obsessed with Marcela since freshman year, though she was in a relationship so nothing came of it. Fast forward to their senior year, Marcela is now single, having learned that her boyfriend has been cheating on her.
When the opportunity presents itself to pose as her fake boyfriend, Theo doesn’t hesitate. He’s always been drawn to her, but Marcela has been oblivious to his feelings, so this set-up was the perfect chance for him to get close to her.
This was a classic fake dating romance—the popular athletic boy and the shy, book-obsessed girl. While I usually love this trope, I was expecting a bit more tension between them. Their friendship was already somewhat established, but the way their romance developed felt a little rushed. I’d have liked to see more build-up, especially in terms of their emotional connection.
Theo was incredibly patient and attentive towards Marcela, which was really nice to see, give how her previous relationship was, but their chemistry lacked the depth I was hoping for. There were moments that were sweet, but I wanted more of a push-and-pull dynamic, something to make their relationship progression feel more earned. I also think they could have spent more time working on their fake dating arrangement—those moments are some of the best parts of the trope for me, but they felt a bit underdeveloped. It felt as if they were putting it on, just because Hunter and Ruby were present.
That said, one thing Carlie always does well is cultural representation, and Marcela’s story was no different. I really enjoyed seeing the small but meaningful details that made her background feel authentic. The found family aspect was also a lovely touch, something that has been a consistent theme throughout the series, too.
Overall, this was a nice conclusion to the series, but I just wanted a little more from the romance. It had the potential to be really fake dating romance, but the rushed pacing and lack of tension held it back for me. That being said, if you’ve enjoyed the series so far, it’s still worth reading to see how everything wraps up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2025
ARC book review
★★★★.25/5
“𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘢,”
“𝘠𝘦𝘴?”
“𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰, 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳.”
as always, thank you to carlie & good girls pr for this opportunity on reading “catch me” early! 🫶🏽
my heart felt so full with joy, reading theo & marcela story but also absolute tears knowing this is the final book in the RLU series. 😩 it was such a heart felt moment watching marcela & theo fall in love but also, getting snips of the rest of the characters in the series especially my loves, elio & jasmine. 🥹
no doubt, fell so hard for marcela & theo. both as a couple & them individually. I adored marcela, a little on the quiet side but she was so sweet & kind, I loved her development on sitting boundaries & standing up to her self. but also, as a fake dating trope & lack of experience, the way she handled her parts with theo had me kicking the air. & theo, he was so darn cute. 🥰 he loved her from the start, & watching him fall absolutely hard for her had my heart. will admit, I was scared for him. seeing as he had feelings for her from the start & becoming her fake boyfriend? but he handled it well. both MC had a great character development against their careers & seeing them both find their actual calling. 🥹 they were just so sweet & wholesome together, there’s wasn’t any way to not love them.
“catch me” was a perfect way to end the series. there’s was an amazing balance of watching the two MC story develop to seeing where they end up along side of everyone else. the epilogue on the other hand had me in utter tears. ❤️🩹
so glad to have the opportunity to love another universe & cannot wait to see what carlie writes next! 🫶🏽
★★★★.25/5
“𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘢,”
“𝘠𝘦𝘴?”
“𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘰, 𝘐’𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳.”
as always, thank you to carlie & good girls pr for this opportunity on reading “catch me” early! 🫶🏽
my heart felt so full with joy, reading theo & marcela story but also absolute tears knowing this is the final book in the RLU series. 😩 it was such a heart felt moment watching marcela & theo fall in love but also, getting snips of the rest of the characters in the series especially my loves, elio & jasmine. 🥹
no doubt, fell so hard for marcela & theo. both as a couple & them individually. I adored marcela, a little on the quiet side but she was so sweet & kind, I loved her development on sitting boundaries & standing up to her self. but also, as a fake dating trope & lack of experience, the way she handled her parts with theo had me kicking the air. & theo, he was so darn cute. 🥰 he loved her from the start, & watching him fall absolutely hard for her had my heart. will admit, I was scared for him. seeing as he had feelings for her from the start & becoming her fake boyfriend? but he handled it well. both MC had a great character development against their careers & seeing them both find their actual calling. 🥹 they were just so sweet & wholesome together, there’s wasn’t any way to not love them.
“catch me” was a perfect way to end the series. there’s was an amazing balance of watching the two MC story develop to seeing where they end up along side of everyone else. the epilogue on the other hand had me in utter tears. ❤️🩹
so glad to have the opportunity to love another universe & cannot wait to see what carlie writes next! 🫶🏽
February 15, 2025
5⭐️
first and foremost, i would like to thank carlie and everyone involved in the arc selection process for allowing me the opportunity to get my hands on this book earlier. im incredibly thankful for the opportunity🫶
this book was everything i wanted and more, it was the most amazing ending to the most amazing series, and i couldnt be more in love!!
marcela gained my entire heart, and words fail me to describe how much i love her. she was sweet and kind, but she also knew how to set boundaries and stand her ground when needed. i loved seeing her friendship with the rest of the girls, and how they were so supportive of each other as well
theo was the cutest ever, from beginning to end, he was truly the most amazing. reading his story and seeing the way he covered his pain with humor hit so close to home, and i guess that made me love him even more. he was always so kind to marcela, trying to never overstep any of her boundaries. his friendship with the guys was the best, and i loved seeing how he was comfortable with them to share whatever
theo and marcela, its been a long time coming, and they couldnt have been more perfect!! they were everything, and i loved their dynamic from the get go. they had the sweetest friendship, and it just made everything else connect so effortlessly
i loved seeing more of the squad too, since in the previous books we only got flitting glimpses of them
this book was gorgeous and so flawlessly perfect, im in love with this series until the end of times, and its a bittersweet feeling that its over now🥲
if you haven't read any of the previous books in this series, please go ahead and do it immediately, you will not regret immersing yourself in this universe💗
first and foremost, i would like to thank carlie and everyone involved in the arc selection process for allowing me the opportunity to get my hands on this book earlier. im incredibly thankful for the opportunity🫶
this book was everything i wanted and more, it was the most amazing ending to the most amazing series, and i couldnt be more in love!!
marcela gained my entire heart, and words fail me to describe how much i love her. she was sweet and kind, but she also knew how to set boundaries and stand her ground when needed. i loved seeing her friendship with the rest of the girls, and how they were so supportive of each other as well
theo was the cutest ever, from beginning to end, he was truly the most amazing. reading his story and seeing the way he covered his pain with humor hit so close to home, and i guess that made me love him even more. he was always so kind to marcela, trying to never overstep any of her boundaries. his friendship with the guys was the best, and i loved seeing how he was comfortable with them to share whatever
theo and marcela, its been a long time coming, and they couldnt have been more perfect!! they were everything, and i loved their dynamic from the get go. they had the sweetest friendship, and it just made everything else connect so effortlessly
i loved seeing more of the squad too, since in the previous books we only got flitting glimpses of them
this book was gorgeous and so flawlessly perfect, im in love with this series until the end of times, and its a bittersweet feeling that its over now🥲
if you haven't read any of the previous books in this series, please go ahead and do it immediately, you will not regret immersing yourself in this universe💗
February 21, 2025
“It’s time to fake the hell out of dating you”.
Firstly thank you to Carlie & Good Girls PR for the ARC. I’ve been blessed enough to be an arc reader for 3/4 of the RLU series and I have loved every single second of it and sad to see it finished.
I loved reading about our most anticipated couple Marcela and Theo. If you want a walking green flag Theo Miller is your guy. Catch me was everything and more and I cannot wait for everyone else to read this beautiful story 🥰
Catch me is out February 25th 🤩
Firstly thank you to Carlie & Good Girls PR for the ARC. I’ve been blessed enough to be an arc reader for 3/4 of the RLU series and I have loved every single second of it and sad to see it finished.
I loved reading about our most anticipated couple Marcela and Theo. If you want a walking green flag Theo Miller is your guy. Catch me was everything and more and I cannot wait for everyone else to read this beautiful story 🥰
Catch me is out February 25th 🤩
February 24, 2025
Thank you to Carlie for the ARC.
This book definitely delivered. It was a brilliant read, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Marcela and Theo were brilliantly written main characters, I love how they connected and slowly got comfortable with each other and developed a close bond.
Theo was such a determined character. He was determined to make Marcela find herself and show her she could be loved. Marcela was determined to move on and find herself following her relationship break down. She was scared to love again, but she was surrounded by people who showed her she didn't need to be scared. Her growth was perfectly written, and I enjoyed reading her character's development.
This book definitely delivered. It was a brilliant read, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
Marcela and Theo were brilliantly written main characters, I love how they connected and slowly got comfortable with each other and developed a close bond.
Theo was such a determined character. He was determined to make Marcela find herself and show her she could be loved. Marcela was determined to move on and find herself following her relationship break down. She was scared to love again, but she was surrounded by people who showed her she didn't need to be scared. Her growth was perfectly written, and I enjoyed reading her character's development.
February 25, 2025
Fake Dating
He Falls First
College Sports Romance
Like what’s not to love? But it gets even more amazing when you see how Theo treats Marcela and the way they grew from friends to lovers and so much more!!
Plus the fact that he calls her Celly and is her safe place?
There’s just SO much to love about this book!
This was just so amazing because both people have a persona that others see and while that is a part of who they are it’s not the whole picture, but they allow themselves to be vulnerable with each other it was amazing!
I was given an ARC from Good Girls PR!
He Falls First
College Sports Romance
Like what’s not to love? But it gets even more amazing when you see how Theo treats Marcela and the way they grew from friends to lovers and so much more!!
Plus the fact that he calls her Celly and is her safe place?
There’s just SO much to love about this book!
This was just so amazing because both people have a persona that others see and while that is a part of who they are it’s not the whole picture, but they allow themselves to be vulnerable with each other it was amazing!
I was given an ARC from Good Girls PR!
February 18, 2025
I’m sorry, but this book just wasn’t for me. I almost DNF because it was a typical fake dating plot, but I pushed through because, in the end, it wasn’t a bad book—it was actually pretty good in some parts.
I rated it 2 stars mainly because there were some enjoyable moments, and the spicy scenes were on fire. However, the biggest issue for me was Theo’s character. I found his obsession with Marcela unsettling—it came off as creepy rather than romantic. The fact that he had feelings for her for so long and then decided that fake dating was the best plan? If this happened in real life, I’d find it creepy as hell. And Marcela asking Theo for help with her book? That just didn’t sit right with me. 🥲
Overall, the book was fast-paced, cringey, and cliché (for me), but I won’t deny that certain parts were enjoyable. I also loved the bonus scene and the group chat at the end!
If you’re looking for a quick read with steamy scenes, you might still want to give this one a try!
P.S. A big thank you to Carlie Jean for the ARC!
I rated it 2 stars mainly because there were some enjoyable moments, and the spicy scenes were on fire. However, the biggest issue for me was Theo’s character. I found his obsession with Marcela unsettling—it came off as creepy rather than romantic. The fact that he had feelings for her for so long and then decided that fake dating was the best plan? If this happened in real life, I’d find it creepy as hell. And Marcela asking Theo for help with her book? That just didn’t sit right with me. 🥲
Overall, the book was fast-paced, cringey, and cliché (for me), but I won’t deny that certain parts were enjoyable. I also loved the bonus scene and the group chat at the end!
If you’re looking for a quick read with steamy scenes, you might still want to give this one a try!
P.S. A big thank you to Carlie Jean for the ARC!
September 2, 2025
-Me gusta como se desarrolla la relación entre los protagonistas. Es un friends to llovers.
-Cuenta cómo algunos vínculos familiares pueden ser no muy sanos.
-Me encanta el found family que se ha formado en toda la serie.
-Ha sido un muy buen final para la serie.
-Sin duda alguna seguiré leyendo a la autora.
-Cuenta cómo algunos vínculos familiares pueden ser no muy sanos.
-Me encanta el found family que se ha formado en toda la serie.
-Ha sido un muy buen final para la serie.
-Sin duda alguna seguiré leyendo a la autora.
February 28, 2025
This was too cute! I LOVE FAKE DATING
February 25, 2025
Arc Read.
I knew I would cry 😭 this book was so emotional not only because it’s the last one from this series but because Theo is the sweetest girl EVER!
I loved everyone second of it! I adore greeting to know Theo more and the relationship he built with Marcela 🥹 this is the perfect friends to lovers book you could ask for.
I’m so proud of these two 🥹 you can really see Theo growth throughout the book and how much they care for each other.
Has a huge fan of these series I couldn’t not mention the little interactions with the characters from the previous books! Their friendship is out of this world.
The only thing I would point out is that the story line felt a little rushed it some moments, but it’s still a great read!
Thank you for the arc! ❤️
I knew I would cry 😭 this book was so emotional not only because it’s the last one from this series but because Theo is the sweetest girl EVER!
I loved everyone second of it! I adore greeting to know Theo more and the relationship he built with Marcela 🥹 this is the perfect friends to lovers book you could ask for.
I’m so proud of these two 🥹 you can really see Theo growth throughout the book and how much they care for each other.
Has a huge fan of these series I couldn’t not mention the little interactions with the characters from the previous books! Their friendship is out of this world.
The only thing I would point out is that the story line felt a little rushed it some moments, but it’s still a great read!
Thank you for the arc! ❤️
April 23, 2025
they’re so cutie and spicy and fun hehehehe
March 6, 2025
For as short as this book was it really dragged on in my opinion. The first two books in this series were so good the last two just didn’t hit. The MMC once again gave me the ick.
February 28, 2025
*Catch Me* (RLU #4) by Carlie Jean is a thrilling romance with tension, action, and heart. The story follows a strong-willed heroine and a protective yet dangerous hero who find themselves tangled in a world of secrets and danger. Their chemistry is intense, and the slow-burn romance keeps readers hooked. The plot is fast-paced with unexpected twists, making it hard to put the book down. Jean’s writing is engaging, and the emotional depth adds to the story’s impact. Perfect for fans of romantic suspense, *Catch Me* delivers passion, drama, and an addictive storyline. A must-read for dark romance lovers!
March 5, 2025
I fee more meh about this book than the previous books in the series.
Theo and Marcela were a cute couple but the story itself felt a bit jarring, like things were happening awkwardly and without proper transitions. I liked their open communication but sometimes if felt too open - like not anything someone would say in real life. Also not a big football fan but that whole plot line felt odd.
I did like the ending. I think it did service to the two characters and was a good, healthy way to deal with that situation.
[2.5 stars, rounded up]
Theo and Marcela were a cute couple but the story itself felt a bit jarring, like things were happening awkwardly and without proper transitions. I liked their open communication but sometimes if felt too open - like not anything someone would say in real life. Also not a big football fan but that whole plot line felt odd.
I did like the ending. I think it did service to the two characters and was a good, healthy way to deal with that situation.
[2.5 stars, rounded up]
May 23, 2025
the love story was sweet
February 26, 2025
3.5 ⭐️(it might change ) arc review!!
Thank you to the pr team and Carlie for giving me once again the opportunity to read this series, it started with Elio and jasmine then cami and Ryker and now I got to arc read my boy Theo and Marcela!
I really liked that Carlie chose these two as the last couple, it closes the plots perfectly and it’s the ones we all saw in the background and wanted to see have their hea and now finally they have it.
That being said here are my pros and cons 😁✨
Pros:
- Theo is the sweetest out of all the boys and I dare to say he’s the perfect amount of sweet, patient, funny and yet serious. Cameron and Elio are my boys but Theo damn well can fit in my pedestal.
- contrary to many I liked the lessons they had, didn’t love the reason why she asked them but anyways, the tension was spot on and I liked how sexy and confident Marcela became in the bedroom with Theo.
- they were so sweet to each other and I know for some it came out cheesy and over the top sometimes but knowing the characters it just felt right. It was a little awkward to see Marcela being closed off and distant ? Yes, but that’s just me, maybe? Theo has the patience of a monk ngl.
- loved the bonus scenes, I think it showed who they really are as friends, Elio get over it you’re old😂
- Marcela became a more confident and open to conversation towards the end which was great for me.
- their spicy scenes were SPOT ON, I wished I was Marcela like goddammn and the way he made her feel 🔥
Cons:
- Theo’s story lacked the depth Marcela’s had, I found myself wanting to read more about his relationship with his dad after confessing his hate towards football and his mom dying. It felt so rushed and awkward bc Theo was a character that literally wore a mask and downplayed his feelings all the time in front of people to please them and be his “happy self”
- Theo was into Marcela from the start and girlie pop was WAY too oblivious like girl, i might be good at reading people’s body language so it’s easier for me but she was BLIND🧍♀️
- I found the reason why to start the lessons selfish and Theo should’ve put a little more boundaries, both should’ve. And all for a book?? I’m sorry but it was bad.
- Marcela was a character I found myself not connecting as much as I thought, she was too shy and quiet compared to the others but it became a little awkward, I know people who prefer to be quiet but she came out as boring sometimes. And don’t get me started with ruby and her scene like GIRL DEFEND YOURSELF!!!!!
Overall a nice way to end the series, not my favorite of the four but it was cute and had so many sweet moments. The cons are a lot I know but it doesn’t take the fact that I enjoyed so much of it, I was at 70% reading fast and that was a good sign but these cons kind of made me feel bad so yeah.
Def a series everyone who likes sports romance should read
Thank you to the pr team and Carlie for giving me once again the opportunity to read this series, it started with Elio and jasmine then cami and Ryker and now I got to arc read my boy Theo and Marcela!
I really liked that Carlie chose these two as the last couple, it closes the plots perfectly and it’s the ones we all saw in the background and wanted to see have their hea and now finally they have it.
That being said here are my pros and cons 😁✨
Pros:
- Theo is the sweetest out of all the boys and I dare to say he’s the perfect amount of sweet, patient, funny and yet serious. Cameron and Elio are my boys but Theo damn well can fit in my pedestal.
- contrary to many I liked the lessons they had, didn’t love the reason why she asked them but anyways, the tension was spot on and I liked how sexy and confident Marcela became in the bedroom with Theo.
- they were so sweet to each other and I know for some it came out cheesy and over the top sometimes but knowing the characters it just felt right. It was a little awkward to see Marcela being closed off and distant ? Yes, but that’s just me, maybe? Theo has the patience of a monk ngl.
- loved the bonus scenes, I think it showed who they really are as friends, Elio get over it you’re old😂
- Marcela became a more confident and open to conversation towards the end which was great for me.
- their spicy scenes were SPOT ON, I wished I was Marcela like goddammn and the way he made her feel 🔥
Cons:
- Theo’s story lacked the depth Marcela’s had, I found myself wanting to read more about his relationship with his dad after confessing his hate towards football and his mom dying. It felt so rushed and awkward bc Theo was a character that literally wore a mask and downplayed his feelings all the time in front of people to please them and be his “happy self”
- Theo was into Marcela from the start and girlie pop was WAY too oblivious like girl, i might be good at reading people’s body language so it’s easier for me but she was BLIND🧍♀️
- I found the reason why to start the lessons selfish and Theo should’ve put a little more boundaries, both should’ve. And all for a book?? I’m sorry but it was bad.
- Marcela was a character I found myself not connecting as much as I thought, she was too shy and quiet compared to the others but it became a little awkward, I know people who prefer to be quiet but she came out as boring sometimes. And don’t get me started with ruby and her scene like GIRL DEFEND YOURSELF!!!!!
Overall a nice way to end the series, not my favorite of the four but it was cute and had so many sweet moments. The cons are a lot I know but it doesn’t take the fact that I enjoyed so much of it, I was at 70% reading fast and that was a good sign but these cons kind of made me feel bad so yeah.
Def a series everyone who likes sports romance should read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2025
Marcela is working her way through her last year of university, with plans to help her mother escape an abusive relationship, while recovering from the own betrayal of her ex bf and best friend. Theo is the schools quarterback superstar, working towards an NFL draft to live out the dreams of his father, who lost his career due to a sports injury. Unfortunately for both of them, Marcela's cheating ex transfers universities to join the football team, and brings his new gf, Marcela's ex-best friend with him. Theo won't stand for seeing Marcela hurt, and together they decide to try their hand at fake dating so her ex won't see the affect his betrayal had. Theo has secretly harboured feelings for Marcela for years though, and now is his chance to get everything he's ever wanted, at least for a little while.
*****
This was a genuinely cute and sweet novel, although it did take a little bit for it to find its pace. The character development started slow, and although this can be read as a standalone, I would definitely read the books prior to get a feel on the existing relationships and side-characters. We do get brief overviews but it really isn't enough to grasp who they are as individuals.
I did struggle a bit with the dialogue and conversations in general. The leads felt a lot younger than university age, and Hunter and Ruby were cartoon villain levels of awful. It didn't feel realistic to have some of the things she said to Marcella occur, nor for her to be so openly awful when she was the one in the wrong. A lot of the dialogue being so over the top or awkward made me struggle to get into the book until about 40-50% through. After that it does coast a lot smoother, with much fewer hiccups.
The main characters chemistry was a little on a unrealistic side as well to start, but it did progress stronger in the second half of the novel. The spice scene were decent as well, although I'm not sure coming in the same pants twice during a long drive is ever going to be something that doesn't make me cringe. Crusty pants will forever give me ick.
Overall, it was an interesting and sweet novel, with some heavier topics that are all resolved in a nice tidy bow by the end. If you're looking to read something where he's fallen hard for her and she's unaware, this is for you!
*****
Thank you to Good Girls PR for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*****
This was a genuinely cute and sweet novel, although it did take a little bit for it to find its pace. The character development started slow, and although this can be read as a standalone, I would definitely read the books prior to get a feel on the existing relationships and side-characters. We do get brief overviews but it really isn't enough to grasp who they are as individuals.
I did struggle a bit with the dialogue and conversations in general. The leads felt a lot younger than university age, and Hunter and Ruby were cartoon villain levels of awful. It didn't feel realistic to have some of the things she said to Marcella occur, nor for her to be so openly awful when she was the one in the wrong. A lot of the dialogue being so over the top or awkward made me struggle to get into the book until about 40-50% through. After that it does coast a lot smoother, with much fewer hiccups.
The main characters chemistry was a little on a unrealistic side as well to start, but it did progress stronger in the second half of the novel. The spice scene were decent as well, although I'm not sure coming in the same pants twice during a long drive is ever going to be something that doesn't make me cringe. Crusty pants will forever give me ick.
Overall, it was an interesting and sweet novel, with some heavier topics that are all resolved in a nice tidy bow by the end. If you're looking to read something where he's fallen hard for her and she's unaware, this is for you!
*****
Thank you to Good Girls PR for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 6, 2025
ARC Book Review
📖Catch Me 🏈
Book 4 in The RLU Series
Written By: @carliejeanwrites
Illustration By: @fjordwind
Overall: 4/5
Overall plot: 4/5
Character development: 4/5
Pace: 4/5
World building: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 2/5
Thank you, Carlie, for letting me read this book ahead of the release date!
This is the first time I’m reading Carlie’s books and will definitely go back to read from the beginning of the series.
Marcela is a shy book lover who was starting her senior year with a broken heart. Her ex cheated on her with who she thought was her best friend and they transferred to another school before their junior year ended, so she thought she’d be starting fresh and have time to heal without them near. Unfortunately, her ex is back along with her ex-best friend. Everything seems to be going wrong.
Theo Miller is the star football quarterback of the school but hasn’t dated anyone since he got to RLU. It all started freshman year in a creative writing class where Marcela and he were the first ones to arrive. He’s been pining for her since.
Theo proposes that they fake date to show her ex boyfriend and ex best friend that she’s moved on, happy, and doesn't care about their relationship. One thing leads to another and lines are blurred. He falls harder and she’s scared to fall - little did she know that he’s always going to catch her.
I really liked both of their character growth throughout the story, their chemistry and banter was spot on. He’s patient while she’s understanding and they balance each other out. They both were struggling to find their voice and stand up for themselves in different ways and they had each other to lean on and give each other strength through those periods. The story follows other characters from the previous books and wraps it up in an epilogue that celebrates years of friendship as their family grows.
Overall, I’d recommend this book if you like to read a college sports romance filled with heartwarming supportive characters + some spice.
Tropes:
📖Fake Dating
🏈College Sports Romance
📖Friends to Lovers
🏈Found Family
📖He Falls First
🏈Spice Lessons
📖Catch Me 🏈
Book 4 in The RLU Series
Written By: @carliejeanwrites
Illustration By: @fjordwind
Overall: 4/5
Overall plot: 4/5
Character development: 4/5
Pace: 4/5
World building: 4/5
Spice 🌶️: 2/5
Thank you, Carlie, for letting me read this book ahead of the release date!
This is the first time I’m reading Carlie’s books and will definitely go back to read from the beginning of the series.
Marcela is a shy book lover who was starting her senior year with a broken heart. Her ex cheated on her with who she thought was her best friend and they transferred to another school before their junior year ended, so she thought she’d be starting fresh and have time to heal without them near. Unfortunately, her ex is back along with her ex-best friend. Everything seems to be going wrong.
Theo Miller is the star football quarterback of the school but hasn’t dated anyone since he got to RLU. It all started freshman year in a creative writing class where Marcela and he were the first ones to arrive. He’s been pining for her since.
Theo proposes that they fake date to show her ex boyfriend and ex best friend that she’s moved on, happy, and doesn't care about their relationship. One thing leads to another and lines are blurred. He falls harder and she’s scared to fall - little did she know that he’s always going to catch her.
I really liked both of their character growth throughout the story, their chemistry and banter was spot on. He’s patient while she’s understanding and they balance each other out. They both were struggling to find their voice and stand up for themselves in different ways and they had each other to lean on and give each other strength through those periods. The story follows other characters from the previous books and wraps it up in an epilogue that celebrates years of friendship as their family grows.
Overall, I’d recommend this book if you like to read a college sports romance filled with heartwarming supportive characters + some spice.
Tropes:
📖Fake Dating
🏈College Sports Romance
📖Friends to Lovers
🏈Found Family
📖He Falls First
🏈Spice Lessons
February 19, 2025
First I want to say thank you to Carlie Jean and GoodGirl PR for the opportunity to read Catch Me.
The story is your typical fake dating. Marcela and Theo meet in the first class of freshman year in college. Theo is the quarterback superstar with fame and friends. Marcela is a shy, quiet book lover who rather stay out of the limelight.
Theo is instantly captivated by Marcela. Unfortunately, Marcela has a boyfriend. The two do develop a friendship. Theo still flirts with her during the time because he cannot seem to help himself. It does seem to be part of who he is .
Flash forward to their senior year of college. Marcela is single after finding out her long-time boyfriend and best friend kiss. Marcela was looking forward to making it through the last year of school and overcoming challenges at home to help her mom. Through a series of events her ex and her ex-bestfriend are transferred to the same college as Marcela and Theo. Marcela's ex is on the football team with Theo.
Theo does not like Marcela's ex because he dated the girl he has pined after for the last three years and the fact he cheated on Marcela. Marcela and Theo start to fake dates to make it look like the ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend have not hurt her. That she has moved on and happy.
Marcela is trying to stick to the rules of the fake relationship. Theo is honoring them to a point, but wants to show Marcela what he has to offer - you could say. The feelings were real for him. Marcela does have feelings for Theo but she was scared to admit them. To allow them to show and be known for fear of being hurt again.
The two do acknowledge and admit their feelings in the end and find their happy ending. Overall, the book does seem a little rushed. I understand the backstories and family dynamics that make the two who they are. While it is not a high-rank / star story for me, I did enjoy the story. I finished it in a day. It was an easy read. I will look at other books by Carlie Jean.
The story is your typical fake dating. Marcela and Theo meet in the first class of freshman year in college. Theo is the quarterback superstar with fame and friends. Marcela is a shy, quiet book lover who rather stay out of the limelight.
Theo is instantly captivated by Marcela. Unfortunately, Marcela has a boyfriend. The two do develop a friendship. Theo still flirts with her during the time because he cannot seem to help himself. It does seem to be part of who he is .
Flash forward to their senior year of college. Marcela is single after finding out her long-time boyfriend and best friend kiss. Marcela was looking forward to making it through the last year of school and overcoming challenges at home to help her mom. Through a series of events her ex and her ex-bestfriend are transferred to the same college as Marcela and Theo. Marcela's ex is on the football team with Theo.
Theo does not like Marcela's ex because he dated the girl he has pined after for the last three years and the fact he cheated on Marcela. Marcela and Theo start to fake dates to make it look like the ex-boyfriend and ex-best friend have not hurt her. That she has moved on and happy.
Marcela is trying to stick to the rules of the fake relationship. Theo is honoring them to a point, but wants to show Marcela what he has to offer - you could say. The feelings were real for him. Marcela does have feelings for Theo but she was scared to admit them. To allow them to show and be known for fear of being hurt again.
The two do acknowledge and admit their feelings in the end and find their happy ending. Overall, the book does seem a little rushed. I understand the backstories and family dynamics that make the two who they are. While it is not a high-rank / star story for me, I did enjoy the story. I finished it in a day. It was an easy read. I will look at other books by Carlie Jean.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2025
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: February 25 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
Buckle up, because Miss Carlie Jean is about to deliver a book that will have you giggling, kicking your feet, and maybe even shedding a happy tear or two. I had the chance to read an early copy, and let me tell you, it was a total joyride. I can't wait for everyone else to dive into this world!
Marcela is going through it. I mean, starting senior year of college with a broken heart? Damn. But then her ex rubs salt into the wound by flaunting their relationship with Marcela's BEST FRIEND?! Cue the dramatic music. I was ready to throw hands for her.
And Theo? He's not your typical alpha-jock. He's thoughtful, kind, and incredibly patient with Marcela. The way he handles her vulnerabilities, her fears of being hurt again, is just chef's kiss. He truly sees her, and he respects her boundaries, and every interaction between them felt genuine and full of feeling. Seriously, his patience alone makes him book boyfriend material!
Every scene with Theo gave me butterflies.
The push and pull of their fake relationship felt so real and addictive. Carlie does a fantastic job of building the tension and making you question what’s real and what’s not. It’s playful, it’s flirty, and it’s full of those little moments that make your heart flutter. You can feel the connection between Marcela and Theo growing stronger with each page!
Look, I know I'm being vague, but trust me on this one: When this book is finally released, you NEED to read it. It's a sweet, funny, and heartwarming story. Just be warned, you might need to clear your schedule for the day because once you start, you won't be able to put it down.
I am already counting down the days until I can get my hands on a finished copy! Carlie Jean, you’ve done it again! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go reread my highlights and dream about a certain quarterback.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: College romance, football romance, friends to lovers, fake dating, opposite attract
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: February 25 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
Buckle up, because Miss Carlie Jean is about to deliver a book that will have you giggling, kicking your feet, and maybe even shedding a happy tear or two. I had the chance to read an early copy, and let me tell you, it was a total joyride. I can't wait for everyone else to dive into this world!
Marcela is going through it. I mean, starting senior year of college with a broken heart? Damn. But then her ex rubs salt into the wound by flaunting their relationship with Marcela's BEST FRIEND?! Cue the dramatic music. I was ready to throw hands for her.
And Theo? He's not your typical alpha-jock. He's thoughtful, kind, and incredibly patient with Marcela. The way he handles her vulnerabilities, her fears of being hurt again, is just chef's kiss. He truly sees her, and he respects her boundaries, and every interaction between them felt genuine and full of feeling. Seriously, his patience alone makes him book boyfriend material!
Every scene with Theo gave me butterflies.
The push and pull of their fake relationship felt so real and addictive. Carlie does a fantastic job of building the tension and making you question what’s real and what’s not. It’s playful, it’s flirty, and it’s full of those little moments that make your heart flutter. You can feel the connection between Marcela and Theo growing stronger with each page!
Look, I know I'm being vague, but trust me on this one: When this book is finally released, you NEED to read it. It's a sweet, funny, and heartwarming story. Just be warned, you might need to clear your schedule for the day because once you start, you won't be able to put it down.
I am already counting down the days until I can get my hands on a finished copy! Carlie Jean, you’ve done it again! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go reread my highlights and dream about a certain quarterback.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: College romance, football romance, friends to lovers, fake dating, opposite attract
March 16, 2025
Don't tell me in the last three years you've become an end of the row guy," I tease, sliding my tote bag onto the floor. "Nah, just a you kind of guy,"
*Thank you to Good Girls PR & the author Carli Jean for an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.*
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Tropes
Fake Dating
Friends To Lovers
He Falls First
Sports Romance
College Football
Here we are in the 4th RLU book with Theo and Marcela starting in class together. Even as it started as just a sweet friendship between the two, things for Theo turned into something stronger. Transfixed by Marcela, he would find any way to get her to see that her ex wasn't worth her time. Even if that meant fake dating and possibly ruining what he had with her, he would do anything to spend all of his time with her.
Stunned by the random, confusing transfer of her ex and ex best friend; Marcela is given a chance to prove herself and hopefully get through the trauma and leave it in her past for good. With Theo on her side, pulling her out of her darkness, will she be able to keep telling herself and Theo, that this is fake and they're only friends? Or will Marcela learn to love herself and Theo along the way?
I love when a story has a MMC that falls first, and harder romance, especially when they have the patience of a saint to wait for the FMC to find herself, and her love. Carli did such a great job with the pining, and the back and forth of should I, should I not thoughts that everyone has in a relationship. Add in some spice with those lessons for Marcela's book? Yes pleaaaaaase.
This was a really great sports romance, especially with a good friends to lovers trope mixed in. The thing for me that pushed this at a 3 star and not a 4 star, was the rush. I felt like their whole story was a little rushed and wished that Marcela and Theo got a little bit more time in their story. But nevertheless, this was a great read! Definitely a great way to tie in all the characters in the series. Would definitely recommend this !
*Thank you to Good Girls PR & the author Carli Jean for an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.*
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Tropes
Fake Dating
Friends To Lovers
He Falls First
Sports Romance
College Football
Here we are in the 4th RLU book with Theo and Marcela starting in class together. Even as it started as just a sweet friendship between the two, things for Theo turned into something stronger. Transfixed by Marcela, he would find any way to get her to see that her ex wasn't worth her time. Even if that meant fake dating and possibly ruining what he had with her, he would do anything to spend all of his time with her.
Stunned by the random, confusing transfer of her ex and ex best friend; Marcela is given a chance to prove herself and hopefully get through the trauma and leave it in her past for good. With Theo on her side, pulling her out of her darkness, will she be able to keep telling herself and Theo, that this is fake and they're only friends? Or will Marcela learn to love herself and Theo along the way?
I love when a story has a MMC that falls first, and harder romance, especially when they have the patience of a saint to wait for the FMC to find herself, and her love. Carli did such a great job with the pining, and the back and forth of should I, should I not thoughts that everyone has in a relationship. Add in some spice with those lessons for Marcela's book? Yes pleaaaaaase.
This was a really great sports romance, especially with a good friends to lovers trope mixed in. The thing for me that pushed this at a 3 star and not a 4 star, was the rush. I felt like their whole story was a little rushed and wished that Marcela and Theo got a little bit more time in their story. But nevertheless, this was a great read! Definitely a great way to tie in all the characters in the series. Would definitely recommend this !
February 20, 2025
This was such a sweet story! I almost felt like this story was the author giving us a piece of her with our FMC Marcela having ambitions to be an author and all the little pieces of overcoming past hurts. Theo who we’ve met throughout this series is as goofy and silly as ever and probably because his name is Theo, all I could do was picture Theo James which I am not complaining about!
Theo has been pining for Marcela since they met freshman year of college, it’s not senior year and while they’re friendly no move has been made towards dating over the years as she was in a relationship. That relationship has ended and Theo is happy to spend more time with Marcela though she keeps him at a distance. When her total jerk ex boyfriend moves back to their school, Marcela is panicked so Theo suggests fake dating to show she’s moved on. Of course with Theo’s long time feelings it’s bound to get complicated, especially when she asks for help trying out intimate acts for inspiration for her book she is writing. Add in a fun friendship group of characters from previous books, family issues on both sides, and the worst ex boyfriend plus ex best friend and it made for a sweet quick read. I really enjoyed it and it was a sweet ending to the series. Especially the epilogue wrap up that included all of the characters. I really enjoyed it!
*College Romance
*Athlete MMC
*Emotional healing
*Fake dating
*Its always been you
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“That’s my girl, and when given the chance, I’m going to do everything I can to show her that.”
“Keep your eyes on us. If I’m going to teach you how to be a good girl for me, then you need to pay attention.”
“If you realize that you feel something for me too, I’ll be waiting. I’ve waited this long, and I’d wait forever.”
“What are you so afraid of?” Her bottom lip quivers as her eyes dart from my lips to my eyes. “I’m scared of falling again.” “I’ll catch you, Marcela,”
Theo has been pining for Marcela since they met freshman year of college, it’s not senior year and while they’re friendly no move has been made towards dating over the years as she was in a relationship. That relationship has ended and Theo is happy to spend more time with Marcela though she keeps him at a distance. When her total jerk ex boyfriend moves back to their school, Marcela is panicked so Theo suggests fake dating to show she’s moved on. Of course with Theo’s long time feelings it’s bound to get complicated, especially when she asks for help trying out intimate acts for inspiration for her book she is writing. Add in a fun friendship group of characters from previous books, family issues on both sides, and the worst ex boyfriend plus ex best friend and it made for a sweet quick read. I really enjoyed it and it was a sweet ending to the series. Especially the epilogue wrap up that included all of the characters. I really enjoyed it!
*College Romance
*Athlete MMC
*Emotional healing
*Fake dating
*Its always been you
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“That’s my girl, and when given the chance, I’m going to do everything I can to show her that.”
“Keep your eyes on us. If I’m going to teach you how to be a good girl for me, then you need to pay attention.”
“If you realize that you feel something for me too, I’ll be waiting. I’ve waited this long, and I’d wait forever.”
“What are you so afraid of?” Her bottom lip quivers as her eyes dart from my lips to my eyes. “I’m scared of falling again.” “I’ll catch you, Marcela,”
February 15, 2025
Arc Review
Available February 25
First off i would like to thank Good girls pr & Carlie for the opportunity to read & review this gifted E-Arc.
Marcela & Theo
Oh gosh!! I love them so much. I absolutely adore the fact that Marcela wants to go after her dreams and do what's best for her even when she knows it's gonna be hard. I adore her for being so open and vulnerably with Theo and letting him know exactly what she needs. I love how she works to find her self and her confidence after everything her ex did to her (i wanna punch them both iykyk) Theo my dude! Let me say i absolutely love him. His ability to be honest with Marcela and show her that everything she wants he can give her with out hesitation or question. His ability to just be her friend first and let her be herself and never push her to be someone else or to do something unless she needs it. His willingness to be her safe space and support her regardless of everything is so dang cute. I absolutely love how he is so obsessed with her (not in a creepy way). The way these two become friends First and let the relationship developed in a natural way is so good to see. The way the are there for each other in the hard times and the good with out judgement is beautiful. These two were destined to be together no matter what and its beautiful.
5/5 Recommend this book. Ugh i don't know how Carlie manage to keep writing such amazing characters with such amazing growth and raw unfilter emotions while still keeping it somewhat light hearted and funny, Also what a way to end a series with a bang. Her ability to write such amazing men who are down bad for their girls & such strong women who take what they deserve is so good. I absolutely cannot wait for what's to come.
Available February 25
First off i would like to thank Good girls pr & Carlie for the opportunity to read & review this gifted E-Arc.
Marcela & Theo
Oh gosh!! I love them so much. I absolutely adore the fact that Marcela wants to go after her dreams and do what's best for her even when she knows it's gonna be hard. I adore her for being so open and vulnerably with Theo and letting him know exactly what she needs. I love how she works to find her self and her confidence after everything her ex did to her (i wanna punch them both iykyk) Theo my dude! Let me say i absolutely love him. His ability to be honest with Marcela and show her that everything she wants he can give her with out hesitation or question. His ability to just be her friend first and let her be herself and never push her to be someone else or to do something unless she needs it. His willingness to be her safe space and support her regardless of everything is so dang cute. I absolutely love how he is so obsessed with her (not in a creepy way). The way these two become friends First and let the relationship developed in a natural way is so good to see. The way the are there for each other in the hard times and the good with out judgement is beautiful. These two were destined to be together no matter what and its beautiful.
5/5 Recommend this book. Ugh i don't know how Carlie manage to keep writing such amazing characters with such amazing growth and raw unfilter emotions while still keeping it somewhat light hearted and funny, Also what a way to end a series with a bang. Her ability to write such amazing men who are down bad for their girls & such strong women who take what they deserve is so good. I absolutely cannot wait for what's to come.
February 22, 2025
4⭐️
the sweetest love story with wonderful growth, a romance for the ages, and the most lovable characters!
this book was everything and more, i have always and will always ADORE Carlie’s writing and it is such a treat to read her stories and dive into these universes.
marcela and theo were everything to me, i thought i could not love the RLU universe more and these two existing proved me wrong, the way they respect and value each other felt so refreshing and real, the healthiest relationship ever build on trust and amicable friendship! i just loved every second of them, i’m a marcello + theo fan for life…🫂🧸
marcela “celly” my girl!!! i felt that i could relate to her introverted side and it was amazing to see her stand up for herself and build character as the book progressed, she is caring, compassionate, and sweet. A character that has you rooting for a happy ending and she just deserves the world!! (aka theo 🙃)
theo the MAN that you are!! adding him immediately to my fictional boyfriend list he is just that MAN!!! the way he felt so deeply?! (we love honest, emotional and compassionate men) and just his soul i could feel it on the page the way that he cared for others, it made me SO emotional!! i related to him in many ways which I feel always makes a book feel more impactful.💌
the last book in the RLU series, catch me was one of my favorites, if i had to rate them it would be: keep me, catch me, promise me, trust me. I had the BEST time in this universe and i will miss these characters deeply but will always hold them in my heart (and the way they made me feel)♾️
thank you to good girls pr and Carlie Jean for the early e-arc, always feel so lucky to have these opportunities!
catch me out February 25!!! happy reading angels💘
the sweetest love story with wonderful growth, a romance for the ages, and the most lovable characters!
this book was everything and more, i have always and will always ADORE Carlie’s writing and it is such a treat to read her stories and dive into these universes.
marcela and theo were everything to me, i thought i could not love the RLU universe more and these two existing proved me wrong, the way they respect and value each other felt so refreshing and real, the healthiest relationship ever build on trust and amicable friendship! i just loved every second of them, i’m a marcello + theo fan for life…🫂🧸
marcela “celly” my girl!!! i felt that i could relate to her introverted side and it was amazing to see her stand up for herself and build character as the book progressed, she is caring, compassionate, and sweet. A character that has you rooting for a happy ending and she just deserves the world!! (aka theo 🙃)
theo the MAN that you are!! adding him immediately to my fictional boyfriend list he is just that MAN!!! the way he felt so deeply?! (we love honest, emotional and compassionate men) and just his soul i could feel it on the page the way that he cared for others, it made me SO emotional!! i related to him in many ways which I feel always makes a book feel more impactful.💌
the last book in the RLU series, catch me was one of my favorites, if i had to rate them it would be: keep me, catch me, promise me, trust me. I had the BEST time in this universe and i will miss these characters deeply but will always hold them in my heart (and the way they made me feel)♾️
thank you to good girls pr and Carlie Jean for the early e-arc, always feel so lucky to have these opportunities!
catch me out February 25!!! happy reading angels💘
April 22, 2025
ARC review
5⭐|3🌶|9%🌶frequency
😭😭😭😭 Yes, I'm crying. This is the last book of this series. And last books make me cry. But this book was more than just the last in a series. This book has so much more.
Theo was always the funny guy. The one who joked with everyone. Who was dedicated to his sport. And who had this huuuuge crush on Marcela 😁
But there is so much behind all this. He created a huge facade and I didn't expect that.
These expectations some parents have for their children... It's sad that they don't realize how much they hurt and break their children 😔
I felt so sorry for Theo but also for Marcela, because she has similar problems with her step-dad. But wow, this guy 😱🤬 I don't have words for him. If, I would say too much here and no I'm not doing that 😎
I loved to see the whole gang in this book even though they aren't at college anymore. Sometimes it was a bit sad because I would have loved to see even more 😎 but I don't think it would have been good for the book 🙈
I loved Dale (Theo's friend, teammate, and roommate) and his story. Because yes, it was partly told too 😊
And OMG, yes, I'm like Theo, I knew there was something fishy with Hunter (Marcela's ex)... God, he is such a 🤬
I don't know what to say more 🙈 Sure I have a lot more to say, but finding the right words... and so 🙈
I'm still crying. The epilogs and bonus scenes and everything. It made me so much more realizing that the four couples have their HEA and are gone now 😭
I'm stopping now. And just hoping there will soon be something new by Carlie 🤞🩷
If you like college sports romance, then this series is for you. Each book is so different, not just because of different sports.
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
5⭐|3🌶|9%🌶frequency
😭😭😭😭 Yes, I'm crying. This is the last book of this series. And last books make me cry. But this book was more than just the last in a series. This book has so much more.
Theo was always the funny guy. The one who joked with everyone. Who was dedicated to his sport. And who had this huuuuge crush on Marcela 😁
But there is so much behind all this. He created a huge facade and I didn't expect that.
These expectations some parents have for their children... It's sad that they don't realize how much they hurt and break their children 😔
I felt so sorry for Theo but also for Marcela, because she has similar problems with her step-dad. But wow, this guy 😱🤬 I don't have words for him. If, I would say too much here and no I'm not doing that 😎
I loved to see the whole gang in this book even though they aren't at college anymore. Sometimes it was a bit sad because I would have loved to see even more 😎 but I don't think it would have been good for the book 🙈
I loved Dale (Theo's friend, teammate, and roommate) and his story. Because yes, it was partly told too 😊
And OMG, yes, I'm like Theo, I knew there was something fishy with Hunter (Marcela's ex)... God, he is such a 🤬
I don't know what to say more 🙈 Sure I have a lot more to say, but finding the right words... and so 🙈
I'm still crying. The epilogs and bonus scenes and everything. It made me so much more realizing that the four couples have their HEA and are gone now 😭
I'm stopping now. And just hoping there will soon be something new by Carlie 🤞🩷
If you like college sports romance, then this series is for you. Each book is so different, not just because of different sports.
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
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