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The Americana Playbook
Parker Montgomery was once America’s sweetheart. She took her first steps in the Capitol when her father was a congressman, and starred in his senatorial campaign ads. But in high school, during his first bid for the White House, she disappeared from the political limelight, leaving her home and best friend, Fitz, behind.
Known for his grit and unwavering determination, Fitzgerald Rhodes is a seasoned quarterback who has just led his team to the Super Bowl. But the bigger win is a chance reunion with his childhood partner in crime, the now sitting-President’s daughter, and–unknowingly to Parker–Fitz’s greatest love.
Reunited, Parker turns to Fitz when a question of inheritance involves not only a wedding, but a return to the spotlight she had been banished from. Seeing this as an opportunity to come clean about his feelings, Fitz agrees to help. But their mutually beneficial relationship grows less convenient as he begins to do just that.
In prime election season, Parker’s revenge on the political dynasty that harmed her unearths not just unrequited love, but secrets and scandal leaving Fitz and his career as collateral damage.
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The Americana Playbook does include information some readers might find sensitive including: struggles with OCD, highlighting the troubled-teen industry, emotional abuse, details (though not graphic) of physical and emotional abuse as well as sexual harassment.
Known for his grit and unwavering determination, Fitzgerald Rhodes is a seasoned quarterback who has just led his team to the Super Bowl. But the bigger win is a chance reunion with his childhood partner in crime, the now sitting-President’s daughter, and–unknowingly to Parker–Fitz’s greatest love.
Reunited, Parker turns to Fitz when a question of inheritance involves not only a wedding, but a return to the spotlight she had been banished from. Seeing this as an opportunity to come clean about his feelings, Fitz agrees to help. But their mutually beneficial relationship grows less convenient as he begins to do just that.
In prime election season, Parker’s revenge on the political dynasty that harmed her unearths not just unrequited love, but secrets and scandal leaving Fitz and his career as collateral damage.
------
The Americana Playbook does include information some readers might find sensitive including: struggles with OCD, highlighting the troubled-teen industry, emotional abuse, details (though not graphic) of physical and emotional abuse as well as sexual harassment.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2025
About the author
Cathryn Carter
7 books63 followersCathryn is a native New Yorker but currently lives in the Middle East with her husband and two children. She often can be found in the corner of one of Amman's many coffee shops with her laptop.
When her head isn't in a book or she isn't writing, Cathryn enjoys building enormous structures out of Magna-tiles with her kids. She loves swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, floating in the Dead Sea, and traveling during non-pandemic times.
You can find her on Instagram @cathryncarterwrites
When her head isn't in a book or she isn't writing, Cathryn enjoys building enormous structures out of Magna-tiles with her kids. She loves swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, floating in the Dead Sea, and traveling during non-pandemic times.
You can find her on Instagram @cathryncarterwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
May 23, 2025
Hello?? Did anyone edit this book?? I found it genuinely difficult to read due to all the errors. The syntax is nearly incomprehensible at points. There were multiple times where the dialogue barely follows the same conversation. Simple spelling and grammar errors all over the place. The actual story and characters are great but my god this author needs a new editor. I’m so confused. Worth the read if you can look past that, though.
March 9, 2026
The fact that the fictional American president in this book was discredited, shamed and went into seclusion just because he and his wife abused his daughter was so absurd to me.
Because here you have a real American president who's committing war crimes and a well-known pedo is still in the White House and still.... haha. the fucking life we live in.
As for the book itself, it was pretty good. The whole revenge part was pretty unsatisfying tho. Very bad execution. BUT, as for the romance and their love story, MY VIBE. I love myself some childhood lover but then got separated and meet later in life. Plus, he fell first. And fall hard.
Because here you have a real American president who's committing war crimes and a well-known pedo is still in the White House and still.... haha. the fucking life we live in.
As for the book itself, it was pretty good. The whole revenge part was pretty unsatisfying tho. Very bad execution. BUT, as for the romance and their love story, MY VIBE. I love myself some childhood lover but then got separated and meet later in life. Plus, he fell first. And fall hard.
April 20, 2025
Rating: Obsessed
I wish I could read this book for the first time again.
🏈President's Daughter
🇺🇸NFL Quarterback
🏈Childhood Friends to Strangers to Lovers
🇺🇸Marriage of Convenience
🏈Revenge/Burn It All To The Ground
🇺🇸Childhood Trauma
🏈Political drama
🇺🇸Secret Tattoo
🏈OCD Rep
This was my first Cathryn Carter book, but you bet your bottom dollar it won't be my last! I go in blind and I added a few more tropes above then what was originally advertised to me because I went in thinking this was a sweet childhood friends to lovers, light, romcom. I expected banter and silliness. If that's what you want, 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.
This is a gritty, raw, horrifying, emotional rollercoaster that will take you on a wild ride into the dark bowels of the Troubled Teen Industry and child abuse (in many forms). It's heartbreaking and infuriating and it will break your spirit reading all of Parker's secret letters on napkins to Fitz all those years ago and you will be rooting for them and screaming for justice.
Parkers parents are ＴＥＲＲＩＢＬＥ people (and her father just so happens to now be President) and while she definitely didn't deserve what happened to her (no child does), it's a sad reality that places like this still exist in the world. Mental health is still looked down upon today (which is crazy). This book dives straight in to it and shows how deep emotional/mental/physical scars can run stemming from childhood trauma.
Fitz went above and beyond. Never one to ever be able to deny Parker anything (even when they were kids) as he's been in love with her since then. He has no idea what happened all those years ago when she "𝓌𝑒𝓃𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝒷𝑜𝒶𝓇𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓈𝒸𝒽𝑜𝑜𝓁" and now that she's stumbled back into his life, he's not letting go for anything.
He does whatever he needs to do to make Parker feel protected and safe and loved. He's always so patient with her and always talks to her with respect and care. He takes what he can get and just waits patiently for her to be ready to tell him more. He's also dealing with his own stuff at the same time, but never fails to prioritize her in his life.
These two have been tethered together for longer than they care to admit and watching them re-bond and get to re-know each other while tearing down the walls they've built was just the best.
I urge everyone to read this book, but to also 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬.
Thank you, Cathryn Carter and The Author Agency for the ARC.
I wish I could read this book for the first time again.
🏈President's Daughter
🇺🇸NFL Quarterback
🏈Childhood Friends to Strangers to Lovers
🇺🇸Marriage of Convenience
🏈Revenge/Burn It All To The Ground
🇺🇸Childhood Trauma
🏈Political drama
🇺🇸Secret Tattoo
🏈OCD Rep
This was my first Cathryn Carter book, but you bet your bottom dollar it won't be my last! I go in blind and I added a few more tropes above then what was originally advertised to me because I went in thinking this was a sweet childhood friends to lovers, light, romcom. I expected banter and silliness. If that's what you want, 𝕥𝕙𝕚𝕤 𝕚𝕤 𝕟𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕓𝕠𝕠𝕜 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕪𝕠𝕦.
This is a gritty, raw, horrifying, emotional rollercoaster that will take you on a wild ride into the dark bowels of the Troubled Teen Industry and child abuse (in many forms). It's heartbreaking and infuriating and it will break your spirit reading all of Parker's secret letters on napkins to Fitz all those years ago and you will be rooting for them and screaming for justice.
Parkers parents are ＴＥＲＲＩＢＬＥ people (and her father just so happens to now be President) and while she definitely didn't deserve what happened to her (no child does), it's a sad reality that places like this still exist in the world. Mental health is still looked down upon today (which is crazy). This book dives straight in to it and shows how deep emotional/mental/physical scars can run stemming from childhood trauma.
Fitz went above and beyond. Never one to ever be able to deny Parker anything (even when they were kids) as he's been in love with her since then. He has no idea what happened all those years ago when she "𝓌𝑒𝓃𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝒷𝑜𝒶𝓇𝒹𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓈𝒸𝒽𝑜𝑜𝓁" and now that she's stumbled back into his life, he's not letting go for anything.
He does whatever he needs to do to make Parker feel protected and safe and loved. He's always so patient with her and always talks to her with respect and care. He takes what he can get and just waits patiently for her to be ready to tell him more. He's also dealing with his own stuff at the same time, but never fails to prioritize her in his life.
These two have been tethered together for longer than they care to admit and watching them re-bond and get to re-know each other while tearing down the walls they've built was just the best.
I urge everyone to read this book, but to also 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬.
Thank you, Cathryn Carter and The Author Agency for the ARC.
July 28, 2025
Lost an extra star for uttering the words “baby batter”
April 16, 2025
The Americana Playbook by Cathryn Carter
4.75/5⭐️
2/3🌶️
3/3🦋
•My Thoughts•
I love books that make me think and feel and THIS book did just that. We walk with our characters through some really hard topics and trauma and my heart hurt while reading so many times. The flashbacks and then seeing the repercussions were heartwrenching. I think our FMC, Parker, is unbelievable brave and I loved her journey. Fitz FREAKING Rhodes was so swoony and his care for Parker was beautiful. He learns some hard lessons too and his journey was no less powerful. Cathryn does such a beautiful job of carrying us *through* the hard to the other side and gives us that hard won HEA. I feel like this story and these characters were real. I want to hug them, tell them I was cheering for them and that I’m so proud of them. Alas, they don’t really exist but I love that this story DOES and can encourage others and shed some light on tough topics. This was so well done. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Cathryn Carter and @theauthor.agency for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
4.75/5⭐️
2/3🌶️
3/3🦋
•My Thoughts•
I love books that make me think and feel and THIS book did just that. We walk with our characters through some really hard topics and trauma and my heart hurt while reading so many times. The flashbacks and then seeing the repercussions were heartwrenching. I think our FMC, Parker, is unbelievable brave and I loved her journey. Fitz FREAKING Rhodes was so swoony and his care for Parker was beautiful. He learns some hard lessons too and his journey was no less powerful. Cathryn does such a beautiful job of carrying us *through* the hard to the other side and gives us that hard won HEA. I feel like this story and these characters were real. I want to hug them, tell them I was cheering for them and that I’m so proud of them. Alas, they don’t really exist but I love that this story DOES and can encourage others and shed some light on tough topics. This was so well done. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Cathryn Carter and @theauthor.agency for the early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 14, 2025
4.25 stars 🌟 aww that was the sweetest childhood bffs to lovers book i’ve read in a while 🥹🏈💍 fitzparker had such a loving and meaningful relationship and it was so wonderful to watch them both blossom and grow throughout the book 💝
i was caught up in not only the romance, but parker’s past and the stuff about coach foller too! they were such important topics to speak about and i loved how well cathryn integrated them seamlessly with the romantic storyline 😇 this was rly good and i will be reading more from this author!
i was caught up in not only the romance, but parker’s past and the stuff about coach foller too! they were such important topics to speak about and i loved how well cathryn integrated them seamlessly with the romantic storyline 😇 this was rly good and i will be reading more from this author!
April 22, 2025
BOOK REVIEW // THE AMERICANA PLAYBOOK
🌟5/5
This book shattered my heart…then slowly but surely the pieces were put back together (that’s the sign of a PERECT book)
If any of you are familiar with Paris Hilton’s story – Parker’s storyline in this book has parallels to what happened to Paris at an institutionalized boarding school.
The secret letters that Parker wrote to Fitz on napkins…absolutely SHATTERED me. The pain and vulnerability were so palpable. I cannot fathom the abuse like what Parker faced is not just fiction.
Fitz – oh sweet Fitzgerald Rhodes!!!! His patience and caring heart had me SWOONING!! He is the epitome of golden retriever energy and what it means to be there and protect the girl you have always loved.
When Cathryn told me about the idea of this novel last year, I knew it was going to be incredible…but I didn’t know just how magnificent the end result would be…I am SO proud of Cathryn and oh so lucky to call her one of my best friends. (and I will never take for granted being in the acknowledgments section)
READ IF YOU LIKE:
Childhood friends to lovers
Marriage of convenience
President’s daughter
Love after trauma
Football romance
Secret tattoos
This baby is LIVE on KU!!!!
Tell me your favorite trope from this lineup!
🌟5/5
This book shattered my heart…then slowly but surely the pieces were put back together (that’s the sign of a PERECT book)
If any of you are familiar with Paris Hilton’s story – Parker’s storyline in this book has parallels to what happened to Paris at an institutionalized boarding school.
The secret letters that Parker wrote to Fitz on napkins…absolutely SHATTERED me. The pain and vulnerability were so palpable. I cannot fathom the abuse like what Parker faced is not just fiction.
Fitz – oh sweet Fitzgerald Rhodes!!!! His patience and caring heart had me SWOONING!! He is the epitome of golden retriever energy and what it means to be there and protect the girl you have always loved.
When Cathryn told me about the idea of this novel last year, I knew it was going to be incredible…but I didn’t know just how magnificent the end result would be…I am SO proud of Cathryn and oh so lucky to call her one of my best friends. (and I will never take for granted being in the acknowledgments section)
READ IF YOU LIKE:
Childhood friends to lovers
Marriage of convenience
President’s daughter
Love after trauma
Football romance
Secret tattoos
This baby is LIVE on KU!!!!
Tell me your favorite trope from this lineup!
April 15, 2025
This was my first Cathryn Carter book and it will certainly not be the last. I was expecting a lighthearted, playful, witty, cute president's daughter x nfl player. I got that, and the most heart-wrenching, intense, horrifying look at America's wilderness schools and politics. I really wasn't expecting the sheer emotional intelligence and cutting commentary this book provides and it really elevates the book for me because yes, you get a romance for the ages, but you also get the most devastating understanding of trauma, teenage behaviour and family dynamics.
The letters from Parker whilst she is at the wilderness school are so cleverly placed throughout the book to echo her emotional turmoil and contrast with her current situation. Watching Fitz realise what she's gone through, watching him realise what's happened to him and his involvement in it was a masterclass in exceptional writing. I have instantly gone and downloaded as many of Carter's works as I can get my hands on (and I'm trying desperately to source paperback copies!). This is an absolute must read for me and I can't wait to see how Carter handles other topics with such emotion and careful craft.
The letters from Parker whilst she is at the wilderness school are so cleverly placed throughout the book to echo her emotional turmoil and contrast with her current situation. Watching Fitz realise what she's gone through, watching him realise what's happened to him and his involvement in it was a masterclass in exceptional writing. I have instantly gone and downloaded as many of Carter's works as I can get my hands on (and I'm trying desperately to source paperback copies!). This is an absolute must read for me and I can't wait to see how Carter handles other topics with such emotion and careful craft.
January 9, 2026
The Amaericana Playbook- Cathryn Carter
Narrated by Sean Masters and Stephanie Rose
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
This wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t great either. It was okay. I think it could use some heavy editing. There were parts where it dragged and then the end came so abruptly, it kind of gave me whiplash. It didn’t grab or even hold my attention quite like I thought or hoped it would. There are some heavy topics in this one and I was hoping that with the state of our recent political climate there would have been more political sabotage as part of the storyline.
The narration was fabulous. Stephanie was so good at capturing the vulnerability Parker’s character held due to her abuse. And Sean was phenomenal in being the overprotective husband just hoping for a real chance with his childhood sweetheart.
Narrated by Sean Masters and Stephanie Rose
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️
Narration 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
This wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t great either. It was okay. I think it could use some heavy editing. There were parts where it dragged and then the end came so abruptly, it kind of gave me whiplash. It didn’t grab or even hold my attention quite like I thought or hoped it would. There are some heavy topics in this one and I was hoping that with the state of our recent political climate there would have been more political sabotage as part of the storyline.
The narration was fabulous. Stephanie was so good at capturing the vulnerability Parker’s character held due to her abuse. And Sean was phenomenal in being the overprotective husband just hoping for a real chance with his childhood sweetheart.
December 10, 2025
Parker and Fitz were inseparable as kids until one day, she vanished. They never truly forgot each other, but while Fitz was chasing his football dreams, Parker was trapped in a nightmare she couldn’t escape. Years later, when life finally brings them back together, Fitz refuses to let her slip away again. Instead, he stands by her side as she seeks justice against her family and fights to reclaim her inheritance.
Their story is deeply emotional. Parker has been through hell, and Fitz slowly uncovers the truth behind her disappearance, becoming her safe place and reminding her she’s worthy of love. Stephanie Rose and Sean Masters absolutely did these characters justice by elevating the entire experience with their performances.
If you’re drawn to emotional, redemptive journeys, this one definitely deserves a spot on your TBR!
Thank you, Cathryn Carter for the ALC.
Their story is deeply emotional. Parker has been through hell, and Fitz slowly uncovers the truth behind her disappearance, becoming her safe place and reminding her she’s worthy of love. Stephanie Rose and Sean Masters absolutely did these characters justice by elevating the entire experience with their performances.
If you’re drawn to emotional, redemptive journeys, this one definitely deserves a spot on your TBR!
Thank you, Cathryn Carter for the ALC.
September 10, 2025
The premise and plot of this was definitely a unique take on marriage of convenience. Parker and Fitz have both been through some really hard things and so their journey to love is a tough one. I don’t always love friends to lovers but that part of this worked for me. I also liked that it shone a light on the abuse that can come in the name of therapy and help. The spice was well outside my comfort zone though and some of it felt gratuitous. I also felt like I lost a little plot while I was trying to skip so that was disappointing. If that doesn’t bother you, the story is a good one.
Content Notes: Multiple open door scenes; strong language
Content Notes: Multiple open door scenes; strong language
June 9, 2025
2/5⭐️
Found this book on TikTok and decided to give it a try. It was fine! The plot was a little all over the place at times. Dealt with some serious topics but also it felt super unrealistic at times
Found this book on TikTok and decided to give it a try. It was fine! The plot was a little all over the place at times. Dealt with some serious topics but also it felt super unrealistic at times
May 28, 2025
This was incredible. Devoured this in 24 hours- couldn’t put it down.
July 26, 2025
Romantisch verhaal, niet super memorabel maar wel graag gelezen.
August 5, 2025
4.5 stars
Oh this had me in a CHOKEHOLD.
Full review to come!
Oh this had me in a CHOKEHOLD.
Full review to come!
December 3, 2025
3.5ish stars
May 12, 2025
I don’t often read books without many reviews, but I scrolled by this one on Instagram and downloaded on KU thinking I could just return if it wasn’t good. NO NEED. I thought this was beautifully written with lovable but imperfect characters and tackled complex topics really well. A gem of a book.
May 17, 2025
that was deep, dark, emotional, yet beautiful. so much more than i was expecting to get out of it.
July 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🇺🇸 President’s daughter + all-American quarterback
❤️ Childhood best friends to strangers to lovers
💍 Fake marriage
🏈 He falls first
I went into this expecting a light, fake-marriage sports romance, but it surprised me with how emotional and tragic it actually was.
This book was heartfelt and layered, with more angst than I anticipated. Overall, a compelling read with more substance than you’d expect at first glance, but only a 3.5 star rating from me.
🇺🇸 President’s daughter + all-American quarterback
❤️ Childhood best friends to strangers to lovers
💍 Fake marriage
🏈 He falls first
I went into this expecting a light, fake-marriage sports romance, but it surprised me with how emotional and tragic it actually was.
This book was heartfelt and layered, with more angst than I anticipated. Overall, a compelling read with more substance than you’d expect at first glance, but only a 3.5 star rating from me.
July 19, 2025
Cute read, wou graag doorlezen! Bedankt voor de tip @ellenvanhoucke 🤝
May 24, 2025
Started off good but then it just lost its way. I thought it was going to be a good revenge plot with some good cheeky banter coming from their fake relationship.
She didn’t get revenge until the last 10 pages so in reality there was about 300 pages of the same football drama on repeat, she also just said the same things over and over again.
She didn’t get revenge until the last 10 pages so in reality there was about 300 pages of the same football drama on repeat, she also just said the same things over and over again.
January 5, 2026
4.5 Stars!
Wow!! It’s been awhile since a story brought so much swoon, AND pulled such deep emotions from me! It was so much more than I expected it to be!
I fell in love with Parker and Fitz’ story right out of the gate! Childhood best friends who were torn apart with no explanation, while Parker was forced to go through a horrible experience. A chance reunion brings them back together in a time when Parker needs it most, and let me tell you Fritz was everything Parker needed and then some!
This story is about second chances, and standing up for what’s right, with football and politics woven in. It tackles hard topics like toxic families, trauma, and abuse, but also shows the beauty of friendship, healing, and love. The story will break your heart at times and carefully put it back together even better than it was before!
I was able to preview the new audiobook with Stephanie Rose and Sean Masters as narrators. Sean Masters is one of my favorite narrators, and this duo did a fantastic job together!
Romance Content: Open-door
Closed-door Modification: ch 15, 26, 30, & 33
Wow!! It’s been awhile since a story brought so much swoon, AND pulled such deep emotions from me! It was so much more than I expected it to be!
I fell in love with Parker and Fitz’ story right out of the gate! Childhood best friends who were torn apart with no explanation, while Parker was forced to go through a horrible experience. A chance reunion brings them back together in a time when Parker needs it most, and let me tell you Fritz was everything Parker needed and then some!
This story is about second chances, and standing up for what’s right, with football and politics woven in. It tackles hard topics like toxic families, trauma, and abuse, but also shows the beauty of friendship, healing, and love. The story will break your heart at times and carefully put it back together even better than it was before!
I was able to preview the new audiobook with Stephanie Rose and Sean Masters as narrators. Sean Masters is one of my favorite narrators, and this duo did a fantastic job together!
Romance Content: Open-door
Closed-door Modification: ch 15, 26, 30, & 33
April 26, 2025
More reviews posted at Tales of Love, Life, and Murder
It took days to decide what to say about this one because it really affected me on a deeper level than the average book. There’s some heavy subject matter here so it’s not all hearts and rainbows but these characters are so real and raw and engaging, it never felt heavy at all. Despite the darker aspects of the plot, there’s humor, heat and a few surprises and I loved everything about it. Parker is the President’s daughter, but she’s been estranged from her family for years, after her parents institutionalized her. They were too busy and neglectful to help Parker deal with her grief after the death of her beloved grandmother. Instead of getting her therapy or trying to comfort her, they sent her to hell on earth and Parker has never forgiven them. She’s been biding her time, waiting for an opportunity to tell the entire world the truth about her parents.
Her father has made a career out of his family values talking points, but his own daughter was abused terribly, and he did nothing to save her. She’s decided that the party convention is the best place to make her speech. After all, her father is running for re-election, and the eyes of the entire world will be on them. Parker has been patient but she’s also eager to get her revenge. There’s a whole industry built around troubled teens, an industry that makes enormous profits abusing and exploiting these kids and Parker is going to use her place in the spotlight to bring this issue to the public’s attention and help affect change. But she runs into a little problem when her mother tries to marry her off to an up-and-coming congressman in the hopes of creating a political dynasty.
Fitz and Parker haven’t seen one another in years but he knows the instant he lays eyes on her that nothing has changed. He would still do anything for this woman, including agreeing to marry her so she can focus on her plan. I adored these characters so much. Parker is amazing, strong and determined and so brave, but despite everything she’s been through, she’s still funny and sweet. Fitz was so patient and sweet with her, just everything she needed. I don’t want to spoil anything so won’t get into any other detail but have to say I really loved this book. I couldn’t get enough, couldn’t put it down and did not want it to end. It was my first book from this author but won’t be the last because this one was an instant favorite.
December 18, 2025
📚The Americana Playbook by Cathryn Carter
🎤Stephanie Rose & Sean Masters
DUAL NARRATION
3.75 ⭐
Narration: 5 ⭐
Thank you Cathryn Carter and Podium for a #gifted copy of the ALC. All thoughts are my own.
When I got this ALC, I was expecting sort of your typical football romance with childhood friends to lovers; it's always been you vibes and even though there is that, this book is MUCH more emotional than I was expecting with some heavier themes that center around a great deal of healing. I enjoyed it & the performances by Stephanie & Sean were FANTASTIC!
Cathryn's story blends sports, some political drama & emotional healing all into it. It packs a punch people! It follows Parker Montgomery, once thought of as "America's sweetheart", daughter in a very powerful political family, who suddenly disappears out of the public eye during her father's first presidential run. She leaves her childhood best friend behind & long time HS crush, Fitz Rhodes, the football star & apple of everyone's eye.
Fitz is now a very successful NFL quarterback. He's wondered about Parker for years & longed to reconnect with her. Years later, she returns, emotionally damaged from her past & in a fight with her family for her inheritance. When Parker is forced to return into the "political limelight" to help with her father's campaign, she asks Fitz for his help. What begins as a fake arrangement quickly turns into something way more emotional & lots of unresolved feelings start to bubble up.
The story follows the reconnection of their friendship, both facing secrets they've pushed down for years, a scandal & the realization that they've always been in love with each other.
🎤Let's talk audio: Stephanie & Sean were great in this emotional story. I really enjoyed this pairing which is one I haven't listened to before. They were able to really bring this story to life. Stephanie's performance of Parker & the trauma that she experiences in HS was powerful. It was heartbreaking & emotional. Sean is terrific as always. His voice was perfect for Fitz' character.
Guys, this one had a lot more angst that I was expecting and I wasn't sad about it. It's heartfelt, emotional & had two MC's that were such endearing & likable characters. I was rooting for these two from the beginning.
🎤Stephanie Rose & Sean Masters
DUAL NARRATION
3.75 ⭐
Narration: 5 ⭐
Thank you Cathryn Carter and Podium for a #gifted copy of the ALC. All thoughts are my own.
When I got this ALC, I was expecting sort of your typical football romance with childhood friends to lovers; it's always been you vibes and even though there is that, this book is MUCH more emotional than I was expecting with some heavier themes that center around a great deal of healing. I enjoyed it & the performances by Stephanie & Sean were FANTASTIC!
Cathryn's story blends sports, some political drama & emotional healing all into it. It packs a punch people! It follows Parker Montgomery, once thought of as "America's sweetheart", daughter in a very powerful political family, who suddenly disappears out of the public eye during her father's first presidential run. She leaves her childhood best friend behind & long time HS crush, Fitz Rhodes, the football star & apple of everyone's eye.
Fitz is now a very successful NFL quarterback. He's wondered about Parker for years & longed to reconnect with her. Years later, she returns, emotionally damaged from her past & in a fight with her family for her inheritance. When Parker is forced to return into the "political limelight" to help with her father's campaign, she asks Fitz for his help. What begins as a fake arrangement quickly turns into something way more emotional & lots of unresolved feelings start to bubble up.
The story follows the reconnection of their friendship, both facing secrets they've pushed down for years, a scandal & the realization that they've always been in love with each other.
🎤Let's talk audio: Stephanie & Sean were great in this emotional story. I really enjoyed this pairing which is one I haven't listened to before. They were able to really bring this story to life. Stephanie's performance of Parker & the trauma that she experiences in HS was powerful. It was heartbreaking & emotional. Sean is terrific as always. His voice was perfect for Fitz' character.
Guys, this one had a lot more angst that I was expecting and I wasn't sad about it. It's heartfelt, emotional & had two MC's that were such endearing & likable characters. I was rooting for these two from the beginning.
May 6, 2025
This will easily be one of my top books of the year, this is my new favorite Cathryn book but I say that with every new book! I know whatever I write here will not do this book justice, but I will try…
This follows Parker and Fitz. They grew up together and were best friends, Fitz was always in love with Parker, but when she was 17 she just left. Fitz was told she went away to boarding school, in reality Parker was institutionalized at a school for troubled teens. 10 years later they are reunited, Fitz is a star quarterback who just won a Super Bowl and Parker is the presidents daughter.
This is a marriage of convenience, Parker will get an inheritance if she is married and participated in her father’s reelection campaign. Fitz uses this as his chance to prove to Parker they are meant to be together.
Now a Cathryn Carter book will put you through some things, and we definitely get that in this book. Parker is still living with the effects of being institutionalized, her trauma was written so well, that I felt her fear and panic as I was reading. But she was also so funny, and still had some of her wild side, she was compassionate and so strong even when she didn’t feel it.
Fitz just loved her so well. From the very beginning you could tell he would do anything for Parker. Parker was terrified that if Fitz knew the whole truth of her past, he would leave her. But the more she revealed, the MORE Fitz loved her. I loved all the ways he supported her and cheered her on. He just kept proving over and over that he loved her unconditionally.
In between chapters are letters Parker wrote to Fitz after she was sent away that she never sent him. Those are heartbreaking to read, but it gives you the necessary context for her story.
Parker’s parents: the president and First Lady are horrible people.
This book talks about abuse and the different forms it can take. But it’s also about healing, finding love, and taking back your narrative. This is a must read, it is beautifully written and will have you feeling ALL of the emotions.
I can’t wait to see what Cathryn brings us next!
This follows Parker and Fitz. They grew up together and were best friends, Fitz was always in love with Parker, but when she was 17 she just left. Fitz was told she went away to boarding school, in reality Parker was institutionalized at a school for troubled teens. 10 years later they are reunited, Fitz is a star quarterback who just won a Super Bowl and Parker is the presidents daughter.
This is a marriage of convenience, Parker will get an inheritance if she is married and participated in her father’s reelection campaign. Fitz uses this as his chance to prove to Parker they are meant to be together.
Now a Cathryn Carter book will put you through some things, and we definitely get that in this book. Parker is still living with the effects of being institutionalized, her trauma was written so well, that I felt her fear and panic as I was reading. But she was also so funny, and still had some of her wild side, she was compassionate and so strong even when she didn’t feel it.
Fitz just loved her so well. From the very beginning you could tell he would do anything for Parker. Parker was terrified that if Fitz knew the whole truth of her past, he would leave her. But the more she revealed, the MORE Fitz loved her. I loved all the ways he supported her and cheered her on. He just kept proving over and over that he loved her unconditionally.
In between chapters are letters Parker wrote to Fitz after she was sent away that she never sent him. Those are heartbreaking to read, but it gives you the necessary context for her story.
Parker’s parents: the president and First Lady are horrible people.
This book talks about abuse and the different forms it can take. But it’s also about healing, finding love, and taking back your narrative. This is a must read, it is beautifully written and will have you feeling ALL of the emotions.
I can’t wait to see what Cathryn brings us next!
April 21, 2025
This was such a heartbreakingly beautiful story between two childhood best friends that get a second chance at a love story that was ripped away from them.
Parker has never fit in with her political family, at the time her father was just starting his campaign for president of the United States. She wasn’t anything like her older sister, she was the wild child. But really she only became that way when she lost the only person who showed her love, her grandmother. She didn’t know how to handle her feelings and with no one at home to help her through them, she acted out. The only person she had was Fitz, the boy next door and her best friend. So when she gets sent away in the middle of the night to go to a different school that is supposed to help troubled teens, she isn’t happy and the only person she thinks about is Fitz and all the happy memories they had.
Football was all Fitz ever wanted. Well that and his best friend Parker, but she never knew and he didn’t know how to tell her he was in love with her. So he kept those feelings deep down. Then she disappeared on him without any explanation. Heartbroken he tried to move on with his life and become a pro football player but Parker is never far from his thoughts even after all these years. So when he thinks he sees her when he is out with his team celebrating the super bowl win they just got, he thinks he is seeing things. But when he gets a note he follows and comes face to face with Parker.
These two have been through so much together and on their own. When Parker comes up with the marriage plan to help get her revenge on her parents I was like yesss!! But I was worried with how Fitz was going to handle it all since he was still very much in love with Parker but she didn’t know.
Their story is heartbreaking once we get all the information on what Parker went through. I was hoping to get a little more action at the end when it came time to take her parents down. They do get their HEA!
.
.
.
4️⃣⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
7/10 recommendation
Parker has never fit in with her political family, at the time her father was just starting his campaign for president of the United States. She wasn’t anything like her older sister, she was the wild child. But really she only became that way when she lost the only person who showed her love, her grandmother. She didn’t know how to handle her feelings and with no one at home to help her through them, she acted out. The only person she had was Fitz, the boy next door and her best friend. So when she gets sent away in the middle of the night to go to a different school that is supposed to help troubled teens, she isn’t happy and the only person she thinks about is Fitz and all the happy memories they had.
Football was all Fitz ever wanted. Well that and his best friend Parker, but she never knew and he didn’t know how to tell her he was in love with her. So he kept those feelings deep down. Then she disappeared on him without any explanation. Heartbroken he tried to move on with his life and become a pro football player but Parker is never far from his thoughts even after all these years. So when he thinks he sees her when he is out with his team celebrating the super bowl win they just got, he thinks he is seeing things. But when he gets a note he follows and comes face to face with Parker.
These two have been through so much together and on their own. When Parker comes up with the marriage plan to help get her revenge on her parents I was like yesss!! But I was worried with how Fitz was going to handle it all since he was still very much in love with Parker but she didn’t know.
Their story is heartbreaking once we get all the information on what Parker went through. I was hoping to get a little more action at the end when it came time to take her parents down. They do get their HEA!
.
.
.
4️⃣⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
7/10 recommendation
May 2, 2025
This book had such a strangle hold on me. Parker and Fitz were complex and endearing characters that had me on the edge of my seat hoping they'd be able to overcome all the villains in their story and finally have a chance together.
The flashbacks of their past were both heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure. This story was intensely emotional and eye opening. The fact that this kind of horror continues to happen and we don't hear anything about it is crazy and tbh, scary.
Parker's vulnerability and bravery made me root for her from page 1. Her passion and drive, the way she forged ahead even though it seemed, at every turn, that the world was against her. But she had Fitz in her corner, even when she thought things were going to be too much, when she was being too much, he comes through for her. He was a man on a mission to help Parker, in any way she needed. I freaking love him.
If golden retriever vibes is your thing, Fitz will not disappoint. This man's tenacity, determination and drive to be Parker's ultimate support and safe place was unquestionable. This might have started as a fake marriage for Parker but Fitz always knew where he stood. He sets out to win his lady and I loved that he treated her the same, like the years apart hadn't happened. He teased and flirted and strived to bring a smile to Parker's face. His playfulness and optimism was just what Parker needed after years of loneliness and fear. Without even trying, he booster her up and gave her moments of peace and calmness.
The Americana Playbook had be laughing, crying, anxious and raging right along side our MCs. It's a story that won't be forgotten and will definitely be revisited again and again. The underlying message of hope is beautiful and I hope it helps raise awareness for the troubled teen industry because there is always more we can do.
Favorite Bits:
🖤 Fitz secret tattoo 🥹
🖤 Their friendship/romance. It was meant to be 🩷
🖤 The moments where our MCs stand up to their bullies. Perfection!
SAFETY INFO:
The flashbacks of their past were both heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure. This story was intensely emotional and eye opening. The fact that this kind of horror continues to happen and we don't hear anything about it is crazy and tbh, scary.
Parker's vulnerability and bravery made me root for her from page 1. Her passion and drive, the way she forged ahead even though it seemed, at every turn, that the world was against her. But she had Fitz in her corner, even when she thought things were going to be too much, when she was being too much, he comes through for her. He was a man on a mission to help Parker, in any way she needed. I freaking love him.
Fitz unknowingly was a long, lost time capsule filed with familiarity, warmth and comfort. Just a minute-long hug and I felt home.
If golden retriever vibes is your thing, Fitz will not disappoint. This man's tenacity, determination and drive to be Parker's ultimate support and safe place was unquestionable. This might have started as a fake marriage for Parker but Fitz always knew where he stood. He sets out to win his lady and I loved that he treated her the same, like the years apart hadn't happened. He teased and flirted and strived to bring a smile to Parker's face. His playfulness and optimism was just what Parker needed after years of loneliness and fear. Without even trying, he booster her up and gave her moments of peace and calmness.
"Imperfect spells out I'm perfect. So if you think about it that way, you're perfect exactly how you are right in this moment."
The Americana Playbook had be laughing, crying, anxious and raging right along side our MCs. It's a story that won't be forgotten and will definitely be revisited again and again. The underlying message of hope is beautiful and I hope it helps raise awareness for the troubled teen industry because there is always more we can do.
Favorite Bits:
🖤 Fitz secret tattoo 🥹
🖤 Their friendship/romance. It was meant to be 🩷
🖤 The moments where our MCs stand up to their bullies. Perfection!
SAFETY INFO:
February 5, 2026
This book was a disappointment for me, which was difficult to reconcile given how many close friends of mine genuinely love it. I went in hopeful, but my reading experience felt emotionally jarring rather than healing.
The FMC endures significant emotional, mental, and physical abuse, and much of the story is framed around mental health and recovery. Outside of intimate scenes, the MMC is often portrayed as supportive and protective. However, within the bedroom, the dynamic shifted in a way that felt deeply uncomfortable to me. What was presented as “spice” came across as manipulation and control—where the FMC was required to perform certain acts or submit to demands in order to receive what she already deserved: care, safety, and validation. For a book that centers mental health, this disconnect was troubling.
If mental and emotional abuse are core themes, then those considerations should not disappear during intimate moments. Boundaries, tenderness, and consent matter especially there. Otherwise, the message risks implying that women’s emotional safety matters—except in the bedroom. If the intention was simply to write steamy scenes for enjoyment, that’s valid, but then mental health should not be positioned as the book’s primary theme.
The level of steam was also more than I personally enjoy, and I found myself skipping multiple scenes. Additionally, there were moments where the MMC’s behavior felt unkind, reinforcing the very cycle many women experience when navigating trauma and mental health struggles.
I ultimately pushed through in hopes of witnessing meaningful redemption and accountability toward the FMC’s abusers, but that payoff never fully arrived on the page, which left me frustrated and unsatisfied as a reader.
This book may work for others, but for me, the handling of trauma, intimacy, and emotional responsibility missed the mark.
The FMC endures significant emotional, mental, and physical abuse, and much of the story is framed around mental health and recovery. Outside of intimate scenes, the MMC is often portrayed as supportive and protective. However, within the bedroom, the dynamic shifted in a way that felt deeply uncomfortable to me. What was presented as “spice” came across as manipulation and control—where the FMC was required to perform certain acts or submit to demands in order to receive what she already deserved: care, safety, and validation. For a book that centers mental health, this disconnect was troubling.
If mental and emotional abuse are core themes, then those considerations should not disappear during intimate moments. Boundaries, tenderness, and consent matter especially there. Otherwise, the message risks implying that women’s emotional safety matters—except in the bedroom. If the intention was simply to write steamy scenes for enjoyment, that’s valid, but then mental health should not be positioned as the book’s primary theme.
The level of steam was also more than I personally enjoy, and I found myself skipping multiple scenes. Additionally, there were moments where the MMC’s behavior felt unkind, reinforcing the very cycle many women experience when navigating trauma and mental health struggles.
I ultimately pushed through in hopes of witnessing meaningful redemption and accountability toward the FMC’s abusers, but that payoff never fully arrived on the page, which left me frustrated and unsatisfied as a reader.
This book may work for others, but for me, the handling of trauma, intimacy, and emotional responsibility missed the mark.
April 23, 2025
I don’t even know where to start with this book, but I loved it. This was the second book by @cathryncarterwrites and I just love how she talks about tough subjects, as well as trauma her characters experience in her romance books, it really takes it to the next level. This book had so many different storylines I was invested in and kept me engaged.
Parker and Fitz are estranged best friends, who serendipitously connect one night. One thing leads to another and Fitz agrees to marry the girl he’s been in love with since he was a young boy. Although Parker, tells Fitz they need to marry because of an inheritance she has an ulterior motive to take down her parents, whose dad happens to be the President of the United States…
I also love love LOVED the marriage of convenience between two estranged childhood best friends, I felt it really added angst to their story which phew I’m a sucker for angst.
Fitz, is such a sweet golden retriever man, ugh he had me swoony and Parker, I don’t know how you can’t help but root for her to overcome her trauma and succeed. I also felt like the spice in this book flowed into the storyline really well.
Last night when I was an hour and 25 minutes away from finishing it, I decided I was going to wait and finish it this morning so I could savor it, it was that good.
IF YOU LOVE…
💍childhood friends to lovers
🇺🇸marriage of convenience
💍he falls first and HARD (he’ll do anything for her)
🇺🇸revenge
💍trauma and learning about The Troubled Team industry
🇺🇸a strong badass FMC
💍football romance
🇺🇸alchemy coded
Then def check this one out! It is now available on KU and Amazon! I can’t recommend it enough.
Parker and Fitz are estranged best friends, who serendipitously connect one night. One thing leads to another and Fitz agrees to marry the girl he’s been in love with since he was a young boy. Although Parker, tells Fitz they need to marry because of an inheritance she has an ulterior motive to take down her parents, whose dad happens to be the President of the United States…
I also love love LOVED the marriage of convenience between two estranged childhood best friends, I felt it really added angst to their story which phew I’m a sucker for angst.
Fitz, is such a sweet golden retriever man, ugh he had me swoony and Parker, I don’t know how you can’t help but root for her to overcome her trauma and succeed. I also felt like the spice in this book flowed into the storyline really well.
Last night when I was an hour and 25 minutes away from finishing it, I decided I was going to wait and finish it this morning so I could savor it, it was that good.
IF YOU LOVE…
💍childhood friends to lovers
🇺🇸marriage of convenience
💍he falls first and HARD (he’ll do anything for her)
🇺🇸revenge
💍trauma and learning about The Troubled Team industry
🇺🇸a strong badass FMC
💍football romance
🇺🇸alchemy coded
Then def check this one out! It is now available on KU and Amazon! I can’t recommend it enough.
April 14, 2025
ARC REVIEW
IDK where to start - This is an AMAZING Novel. TAP is a deeply emotional read, touching sensitive topics and spotlighting the hard reality of inner turmoil. Parker Montgomery is stronger than I thought, setting boundaries and truly just trying her best. She NEVER deserved the way her family treated her (Fictional President or Not). Parker deserved better, and so did Sarah. Parker dealt with BIG emotions, and I know personally that You're not able to choose how You grieve or deal with changes, and it's hard. Mental Health is still a taboo topic for MANY people (My own family included) and this book made Me feel seen, heard. A 5 Star Rating isn't Enough. NOW, my favorite part of the book - Fitzgerald Rhodes. Y'all this Man *swoon.* He brings a new definition to Protective. Fitz is a gentle giant and a soft soul. He cares about Parker with EVERYTHING in him and would burn down the world, Secret Service and all., for her. I am low-key obsessed with this Man! Yes, Fitz was blind to the harsh reality of verbal abu-e BUT once his mindset changed and the truth arised, Fitz went above and beyond. TAP wrecked ME and I HIGHLY recommend that whoever reads Parker and Fitz's story takes it with a grain of salt and preparation. Here are the Tropes:
- Fake Engagemnet turn Marriage of Convenience
- Slow Burn Romance
- Childhood Friends to Lovers
- Football Romance
- Close Proximity
NOTE - I encourage all to read the Trigger Warnings before starting this greatly written Novel.
IDK where to start - This is an AMAZING Novel. TAP is a deeply emotional read, touching sensitive topics and spotlighting the hard reality of inner turmoil. Parker Montgomery is stronger than I thought, setting boundaries and truly just trying her best. She NEVER deserved the way her family treated her (Fictional President or Not). Parker deserved better, and so did Sarah. Parker dealt with BIG emotions, and I know personally that You're not able to choose how You grieve or deal with changes, and it's hard. Mental Health is still a taboo topic for MANY people (My own family included) and this book made Me feel seen, heard. A 5 Star Rating isn't Enough. NOW, my favorite part of the book - Fitzgerald Rhodes. Y'all this Man *swoon.* He brings a new definition to Protective. Fitz is a gentle giant and a soft soul. He cares about Parker with EVERYTHING in him and would burn down the world, Secret Service and all., for her. I am low-key obsessed with this Man! Yes, Fitz was blind to the harsh reality of verbal abu-e BUT once his mindset changed and the truth arised, Fitz went above and beyond. TAP wrecked ME and I HIGHLY recommend that whoever reads Parker and Fitz's story takes it with a grain of salt and preparation. Here are the Tropes:
- Fake Engagemnet turn Marriage of Convenience
- Slow Burn Romance
- Childhood Friends to Lovers
- Football Romance
- Close Proximity
NOTE - I encourage all to read the Trigger Warnings before starting this greatly written Novel.
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