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PCU Storm #3
Play Fake
Beck
I wasn’t looking for love.
Not when I was still trying to figure out how to let anyone in.
But Sophie Prescott makes it impossible to keep my walls up—
because somehow, she feels like the home I’ve always been searching for.
Sophie
He was supposed to be my friend.
A distraction. A lie we both agreed to tell.
But somewhere between pretending and falling, Beck became my safe place.
And maybe love isn’t about fixing what’s broken—
it’s about finding someone who stays through the healing.
I wasn’t looking for love.
Not when I was still trying to figure out how to let anyone in.
But Sophie Prescott makes it impossible to keep my walls up—
because somehow, she feels like the home I’ve always been searching for.
Sophie
He was supposed to be my friend.
A distraction. A lie we both agreed to tell.
But somewhere between pretending and falling, Beck became my safe place.
And maybe love isn’t about fixing what’s broken—
it’s about finding someone who stays through the healing.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2025
353 people are currently reading
1802 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
December 18, 2025
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── 4.5 stars
fake dating is a trope i usually love, and this was no exception!! riley always has such a good way with writing and words and im SO excited for book 4 ?!! and then the hockey series 😋
predictions for book 4
- injured / former college football player
- best friend's little sister
- dislike/enemies to lovers
- yearning/pining for years
- mental health rep
- rival schools
this was written so well, and the mental health representation was everything. full rtc <3
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── pre-read
i devoured the first two books in this series - hands down my fav football college romance series. the mental health depicted is truly so authentic and raw. i love riley's writing and can't wait to be back! bittersweet that there's only 1 more book 💔
↪ started dec 16
↪ finished dec 17
fake dating is a trope i usually love, and this was no exception!! riley always has such a good way with writing and words and im SO excited for book 4 ?!! and then the hockey series 😋
predictions for book 4
- injured / former college football player
- best friend's little sister
- dislike/enemies to lovers
- yearning/pining for years
- mental health rep
- rival schools
this was written so well, and the mental health representation was everything. full rtc <3
𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡ ── pre-read
i devoured the first two books in this series - hands down my fav football college romance series. the mental health depicted is truly so authentic and raw. i love riley's writing and can't wait to be back! bittersweet that there's only 1 more book 💔
↪ started dec 16
↪ finished dec 17
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Want to read
November 7, 2025YAYYYY I GOT THE ARC!!
November 11, 2025
Play Fake is more than just a sports romance it’s a story with real people, real dramas and more importantly real emotions. I love the way Riley writes she is definitely becoming one of my favourite authors. We return to the PCU Storm series with Play Fake book three in this wonderful series. This friends to lovers, fake dating romance features Beck and Sophie whom I both love and together they are just perfect. I love the representation of Beck being a coeliac and the struggles one faces having this autoimmune disease. As a fellow coeliac I love reading about characters having this condition and more awareness can only be a good thing. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and would highly recommend the whole series.
I received a complementary copy from the author.
November 21, 2025
arc review
I immediately liked Beck from the first chapter. I had a soft spot for the barricaded wall he put up between his long term relationship that broke him, his childhood, and his challenges with celiac disease.
While I don't have an extensive knowledge of celiac disease I can appreciate the representation and can relate in a small way with my own food allergies to the bit of ocd of rechecking labels
Beck is so sweet, guarded, and has determination. Football, no distractions, keeping most at a distance. Battling his struggles that he has been trying to navigate
Sophie came in hott with her confidence standing up for herself. She may have a certain reputation to uphold with her family but she slowly realizes how much more she deserves and the resilience she carries. She is selfless and kind hearted
Their friendship was pure and genuine. Their connection and relationship development held so much weight. More meaningful. Deep and emotional where they healed together. They had the quiet love. The whispering steady pace of louder actions, considerate thought, and a trust that grew over time.
This is book three in the PCU series and I have loved each of the characters and couples books. All special with writing that will stay with you
I immediately liked Beck from the first chapter. I had a soft spot for the barricaded wall he put up between his long term relationship that broke him, his childhood, and his challenges with celiac disease.
While I don't have an extensive knowledge of celiac disease I can appreciate the representation and can relate in a small way with my own food allergies to the bit of ocd of rechecking labels
Beck is so sweet, guarded, and has determination. Football, no distractions, keeping most at a distance. Battling his struggles that he has been trying to navigate
Sophie came in hott with her confidence standing up for herself. She may have a certain reputation to uphold with her family but she slowly realizes how much more she deserves and the resilience she carries. She is selfless and kind hearted
Their friendship was pure and genuine. Their connection and relationship development held so much weight. More meaningful. Deep and emotional where they healed together. They had the quiet love. The whispering steady pace of louder actions, considerate thought, and a trust that grew over time.
This is book three in the PCU series and I have loved each of the characters and couples books. All special with writing that will stay with you
November 15, 2025
ARC Review - 5 ★
⋆˚࿔ i am so in love with this book!! it feels like absolute perfection and gives me everything i wanted. the chemistry between the characters is amazing, there is no omd/owd and they actually take time to get to know each other without sex involved. they show love through small actions and quiet care and that made their relationship feel even more special.
the representation of beck being coeliac was handled so well. his struggles with his condition are shown honestly and sophie paying attention to his health and making sure he did not eat something unsafe felt so thoughtful. those small moments matter the most and make you feel seen. beck also comes from a completely different background than sophie, with a mother who has schizophrenia, which is a sensitive and triggering subject for him. sophie understood him, stayed calm and did not judge when she saw his mom during a difficult moment. that scene made their bond feel even stronger. there is a small appearance from sophie's and beck’s ex but i am glad the author chose not to create unnecessary drama. instead, the focus stayed on their connection and how they slowly built something real. it may feel like a slow burn but that is exactly what made their relationship feel genuine and earned.
Riley Paige is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors and i am excited to read more of her books!!
Thank you to Riley Paige for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
⋆˚࿔ i am so in love with this book!! it feels like absolute perfection and gives me everything i wanted. the chemistry between the characters is amazing, there is no omd/owd and they actually take time to get to know each other without sex involved. they show love through small actions and quiet care and that made their relationship feel even more special.
the representation of beck being coeliac was handled so well. his struggles with his condition are shown honestly and sophie paying attention to his health and making sure he did not eat something unsafe felt so thoughtful. those small moments matter the most and make you feel seen. beck also comes from a completely different background than sophie, with a mother who has schizophrenia, which is a sensitive and triggering subject for him. sophie understood him, stayed calm and did not judge when she saw his mom during a difficult moment. that scene made their bond feel even stronger. there is a small appearance from sophie's and beck’s ex but i am glad the author chose not to create unnecessary drama. instead, the focus stayed on their connection and how they slowly built something real. it may feel like a slow burn but that is exactly what made their relationship feel genuine and earned.
Riley Paige is quickly becoming one of my favourite authors and i am excited to read more of her books!!
Thank you to Riley Paige for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
November 23, 2025
ARC review play fake
-Fake dating
-Slow burn
-Friends to lovers
-Forced proximity
✨ I wasn’t prepared to fall this hard for Beck… but here we are.
BOOK 3 in the PCU Storm series, and I swear Riley’s debut series just keeps getting better. Beck might actually be my favourite MMC so far from this series, I adored this book.
This one follows Sophie and Beck, who meet in a college setting and get partnered for a class project. From there, everything slowly shifts, more time together, more tension, more feelings. Sophie definitely falls first, while Beck is still carrying the weight of past heartbreak and deep family trauma. His mother’s schizophrenia has shaped so much of who he is, and you feel every layer of how guarded he’s become 😭😔
At first he’s closed off, quiet, and hard to read but Sophie is the one who gets him to open up. Really open up. Watching those walls come down and seeing him fall for her, Beautiful.
And here’s the thing:
This book isn’t spicy… and you KNOW how much I love spice.
But honestly It didn’t need it.
The emotional connection between them was the heartbeat of the whole story — raw, gentle, and powerful. 💕
A soft, emotional romance that hits in all the right places. I loved this one. 🤍
Thank you to authorrileypaige for an arc copy as part of your team 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️
-Fake dating
-Slow burn
-Friends to lovers
-Forced proximity
✨ I wasn’t prepared to fall this hard for Beck… but here we are.
BOOK 3 in the PCU Storm series, and I swear Riley’s debut series just keeps getting better. Beck might actually be my favourite MMC so far from this series, I adored this book.
This one follows Sophie and Beck, who meet in a college setting and get partnered for a class project. From there, everything slowly shifts, more time together, more tension, more feelings. Sophie definitely falls first, while Beck is still carrying the weight of past heartbreak and deep family trauma. His mother’s schizophrenia has shaped so much of who he is, and you feel every layer of how guarded he’s become 😭😔
At first he’s closed off, quiet, and hard to read but Sophie is the one who gets him to open up. Really open up. Watching those walls come down and seeing him fall for her, Beautiful.
And here’s the thing:
This book isn’t spicy… and you KNOW how much I love spice.
But honestly It didn’t need it.
The emotional connection between them was the heartbeat of the whole story — raw, gentle, and powerful. 💕
A soft, emotional romance that hits in all the right places. I loved this one. 🤍
Thank you to authorrileypaige for an arc copy as part of your team 💕
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️
November 25, 2025
I think this story has so much potential but it honestly seemed like what I read was a placeholder rough draft… continuity was such an issue. There were even a few scenes completely repeated. There was so much detail relating to the actually football games, and so little detail in other areas of importance, especially in the beginning. There were some plot points that could have been explored more, such as resolution with Sophie’s parents, they just sort of disappeared… Angela pops out of nowhere on Thanksgiving…. Weird. And it seems like maybe spice was added as an after thought and it was sort of all over the place as well. I made myself finish it but wish the ride was a bit less confusing.
November 15, 2025
This is a 2.75 star for me. Sorry but...well, continue to understand my thought process.
I'm going to be honest...I was hoping for more from Play Fake. I really enjoyed Broken Play, and I loved Red Zone, so my expectations for Play Fake were high. I was given the opportunity to read an ARC copy of this book, and I hope that some last-minute changes or updates were made before the final copy is printed, because, truthfully, it felt like the story was all over the place.
First, if you are expecting spice, this book really doesn't have it. I mean, the first two didn't have a ton either, but we did see the physical attraction, the fact that the characters were hormonal young adults in college, all that. This one...hmmm, you have two scenes that I personally would classify as high school appropriate, and, until the epilogue, you don't really get anything. So, do with that what you will.
Does that mean it's not worth reading because it lacks spice? No, not at all. I enjoyed the book, but I felt that it could have been more.
It was made very clear to me that Riley either knows football very well or she is good at faking it because there are paragraphs upon paragraphs of Beck's mindset and the play-by-play action of the game in real time. I enjoy that; it helps me get into the character's headspace and understand his dedication and focus on his craft. HOWEVER, I do not love it when we go into so much detail on something like a game at the expense of other text. There were a lot of scenes that felt like they were glossed over or that we were given minimal background information. I needed more: More dialogue between Beck and Sophie when they were getting to know each other, what happened with Beck's mom, can we have a few memories of Beck's childhood when his mother was healthy and more examples (flashbacks) of how everything started to change as her health declined, how did Sophie's childhood help develop the relationship she has with her parents, what do her parents do that they care so much about the possible ties that come with her dating Zach... I want to know what drew Sophie to social work and to start volunteering in the foster care system. I understood Carter's need to be involved in the previous book due to his personal connection, but what was it that made Sophie want to go down that path, and who introduced her to that world? Sophie's family wealth was briefly mentioned, but there was no follow-through on her status or how she lived a privileged life.
There is so much background information missing from the plot that I felt like I was missing half the book. There were numerous details introduced into the plot that were later forgotten.
If you read Red Zone, you can continue. If not, here is your spoiler alert
We know that Beck dated his previous girlfriend for a decade and that they had been friends since childhood. They broke up because she cheated on him. Something like that changes a person's outlook on love, and, yes, we did see how Beck was reluctant to fall in love again; we didn't really see him dwell on the break-up or get angry. Seriously, are you telling me that Angela, in the months since the breakup, didn't try to reach out, go to games, or learn about Sophie and get jealous? However, and SPOILER ALERT, in this book
There are then a few scenes that are obviously setting up the next book or, in my opinion, the next two books. I'm curious to see where this goes.
I'm going to be honest...I was hoping for more from Play Fake. I really enjoyed Broken Play, and I loved Red Zone, so my expectations for Play Fake were high. I was given the opportunity to read an ARC copy of this book, and I hope that some last-minute changes or updates were made before the final copy is printed, because, truthfully, it felt like the story was all over the place.
First, if you are expecting spice, this book really doesn't have it. I mean, the first two didn't have a ton either, but we did see the physical attraction, the fact that the characters were hormonal young adults in college, all that. This one...hmmm, you have two scenes that I personally would classify as high school appropriate, and, until the epilogue, you don't really get anything. So, do with that what you will.
Does that mean it's not worth reading because it lacks spice? No, not at all. I enjoyed the book, but I felt that it could have been more.
It was made very clear to me that Riley either knows football very well or she is good at faking it because there are paragraphs upon paragraphs of Beck's mindset and the play-by-play action of the game in real time. I enjoy that; it helps me get into the character's headspace and understand his dedication and focus on his craft. HOWEVER, I do not love it when we go into so much detail on something like a game at the expense of other text. There were a lot of scenes that felt like they were glossed over or that we were given minimal background information. I needed more: More dialogue between Beck and Sophie when they were getting to know each other, what happened with Beck's mom, can we have a few memories of Beck's childhood when his mother was healthy and more examples (flashbacks) of how everything started to change as her health declined, how did Sophie's childhood help develop the relationship she has with her parents, what do her parents do that they care so much about the possible ties that come with her dating Zach... I want to know what drew Sophie to social work and to start volunteering in the foster care system. I understood Carter's need to be involved in the previous book due to his personal connection, but what was it that made Sophie want to go down that path, and who introduced her to that world? Sophie's family wealth was briefly mentioned, but there was no follow-through on her status or how she lived a privileged life.
There is so much background information missing from the plot that I felt like I was missing half the book. There were numerous details introduced into the plot that were later forgotten.
If you read Red Zone, you can continue. If not, here is your spoiler alert
We know that Beck dated his previous girlfriend for a decade and that they had been friends since childhood. They broke up because she cheated on him. Something like that changes a person's outlook on love, and, yes, we did see how Beck was reluctant to fall in love again; we didn't really see him dwell on the break-up or get angry. Seriously, are you telling me that Angela, in the months since the breakup, didn't try to reach out, go to games, or learn about Sophie and get jealous? However, and SPOILER ALERT, in this book
There are then a few scenes that are obviously setting up the next book or, in my opinion, the next two books. I'm curious to see where this goes.
November 23, 2025
This one doesn’t just tell a love story… it lets you feel it heal you.
Beck is the kind of hero who doesn’t know how to be loved even when he’s desperate for it. Closed off, guarded, carrying too much he never asked for—but somehow still gentle in the ways that matter most. Watching him unravel, piece by piece, for Sophie is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful.
And Sophie? She’s warmth. Strength. Quiet resilience wrapped in kindness. She isn’t trying to save him or fix him—she just stays. And in a world where everyone leaves, that kind of love hits deeper than any grand gesture ever could.
Their relationship is built on friendship, fake dating tension, and that slow realization that what they’re pretending… feels way too real to walk away from. There’s no rushing here. Just soft moments, honesty, vulnerability, and the kind of connection that feels like a safe place instead of a battlefield.
This story is for anyone who believes love doesn’t erase scars—
it just makes them easier to carry.
If you love:
🤍 Friends to lovers
🤍 Fake dating
🤍 Emotional slow burn
🤍 Healing love & comfort romance
…this one is going to settle in your chest and stay there.
Beck is the kind of hero who doesn’t know how to be loved even when he’s desperate for it. Closed off, guarded, carrying too much he never asked for—but somehow still gentle in the ways that matter most. Watching him unravel, piece by piece, for Sophie is as heartbreaking as it is beautiful.
And Sophie? She’s warmth. Strength. Quiet resilience wrapped in kindness. She isn’t trying to save him or fix him—she just stays. And in a world where everyone leaves, that kind of love hits deeper than any grand gesture ever could.
Their relationship is built on friendship, fake dating tension, and that slow realization that what they’re pretending… feels way too real to walk away from. There’s no rushing here. Just soft moments, honesty, vulnerability, and the kind of connection that feels like a safe place instead of a battlefield.
This story is for anyone who believes love doesn’t erase scars—
it just makes them easier to carry.
If you love:
🤍 Friends to lovers
🤍 Fake dating
🤍 Emotional slow burn
🤍 Healing love & comfort romance
…this one is going to settle in your chest and stay there.
November 12, 2025
Title line:
Slow burn that hits you straight in the chest — not the sheets.
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (meaningful, not mindless)
Tropes: Fake Dating • Friends to Lovers • Slow Burn • Athlete + Psychology Major • Healing from Betrayal
Review:
Play Fake gives you a romance that isn’t about the rush — it’s about the rebuild.
Sophie Prescott walks away from a cheating boyfriend and collides with Beck Calder, who’s nursing his own betrayal from an eleven-year relationship. Their connection starts subtle — shared glances in an advanced psych class, accidental friendship, emotional honesty they didn’t expect. The fake dating setup is just the gateway drug; the real high is how carefully they learn each other.
Beck is the standout here. He’s not your typical campus playboy. He refuses casual sex because he wants intimacy tied to commitment, and that gives the slow burn actual weight. Sophie finds safety with him — not the kind that wraps you in bubble wrap, but the kind that encourages you to show your real self without fear.
What I loved: the emotional depth. The conversations. Watching two people choose healing instead of hiding. Beck’s struggle between the NFL and becoming a counselor gave him dimension beyond “hot athlete.”
What didn’t quite hit: this burn is genuinely slow. At times I wanted to shake them both like, “JUST KISS,” but the payoff works because it feels earned.
If you want a story where intimacy is intention, not impulse, where spice comes after emotional truth — this one delivers.
Slow burn that hits you straight in the chest — not the sheets.
Star Rating: ★★★★☆
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (meaningful, not mindless)
Tropes: Fake Dating • Friends to Lovers • Slow Burn • Athlete + Psychology Major • Healing from Betrayal
Review:
Play Fake gives you a romance that isn’t about the rush — it’s about the rebuild.
Sophie Prescott walks away from a cheating boyfriend and collides with Beck Calder, who’s nursing his own betrayal from an eleven-year relationship. Their connection starts subtle — shared glances in an advanced psych class, accidental friendship, emotional honesty they didn’t expect. The fake dating setup is just the gateway drug; the real high is how carefully they learn each other.
Beck is the standout here. He’s not your typical campus playboy. He refuses casual sex because he wants intimacy tied to commitment, and that gives the slow burn actual weight. Sophie finds safety with him — not the kind that wraps you in bubble wrap, but the kind that encourages you to show your real self without fear.
What I loved: the emotional depth. The conversations. Watching two people choose healing instead of hiding. Beck’s struggle between the NFL and becoming a counselor gave him dimension beyond “hot athlete.”
What didn’t quite hit: this burn is genuinely slow. At times I wanted to shake them both like, “JUST KISS,” but the payoff works because it feels earned.
If you want a story where intimacy is intention, not impulse, where spice comes after emotional truth — this one delivers.
November 22, 2025
⋆.𐙚 ̊ ᴀʀᴄ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ ⋆.𐙚 ̊
ᴘʟᴀʏ ꜰᴀᴋᴇ ʙʏ @authorrileypaige
5★
ᴍʏ ᴏᴘɪɴɪᴏɴ -
This was such a great and sweet book, I loved the vibes it was just amazing. I loved how they became to comfortable and grew together as a couple
The chemistry and banter with these two were chef kiss and the slow burn was slowingggg I was like just kiss already loll
This book is emotional and perfect I loved how they became friends before anything it was amazing. Their connection was great I laughed and cried
Sophie is just the sweetest girl I love her so much. She’s such an amazing person everyone deserves a Sophie in their life
I loved the epilogue so much it was such amazing ending for their story I couldn’t get enough of this book
Beck I have been waiting for his book forever, because he deserves everything in life. He’s such an amazing guy I love him loll
Beck and Sophie started fake dating because her ex boyfriend who’s absolute asshole kept cheating and harassing her and I do not like her parents at all loll
I’m so excited for the next book in this series!
📣🏈 what to expect
-College Romance
-Football x Cheerleader
-Fake Dating
-Friends to lovers
-SLOW BURN
-She falls first/He falls harder
-Forced Proximity
Thank you for giving me this arc ⭐️
ᴘʟᴀʏ ꜰᴀᴋᴇ ʙʏ @authorrileypaige
5★
ᴍʏ ᴏᴘɪɴɪᴏɴ -
This was such a great and sweet book, I loved the vibes it was just amazing. I loved how they became to comfortable and grew together as a couple
The chemistry and banter with these two were chef kiss and the slow burn was slowingggg I was like just kiss already loll
This book is emotional and perfect I loved how they became friends before anything it was amazing. Their connection was great I laughed and cried
Sophie is just the sweetest girl I love her so much. She’s such an amazing person everyone deserves a Sophie in their life
I loved the epilogue so much it was such amazing ending for their story I couldn’t get enough of this book
Beck I have been waiting for his book forever, because he deserves everything in life. He’s such an amazing guy I love him loll
Beck and Sophie started fake dating because her ex boyfriend who’s absolute asshole kept cheating and harassing her and I do not like her parents at all loll
I’m so excited for the next book in this series!
📣🏈 what to expect
-College Romance
-Football x Cheerleader
-Fake Dating
-Friends to lovers
-SLOW BURN
-She falls first/He falls harder
-Forced Proximity
Thank you for giving me this arc ⭐️
November 30, 2025
4.75/5⭐️ - Thank you to the author for the ARC of Play Fake!
I have loved every single one of Riley Paige’s books so far, and this is no exception. In my option each story just gets better and better. Beck and Sophie have my whole heart and I can’t wait to read what’s next!
I have loved every single one of Riley Paige’s books so far, and this is no exception. In my option each story just gets better and better. Beck and Sophie have my whole heart and I can’t wait to read what’s next!
November 11, 2025
Play Fake is a very sweet, slow burn book. I fell in love with both characters and loved the development of their relationship.
November 21, 2025
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
“You’re gonna kill me.” “Not before I drive you crazy first.” 🤍🤍🤍
If you’ve loved the first two books of the PCU series, you’ll love this one just as much. I love seeing how the series connects, mildly repeats itself but we get happy endings.
I appreciate Riley’s ability to sprinkle in trauma and either chronic illness or neurological disorders. As a celiac myself, I’ve never read a book where someone had it and it was well put and thoroughly researched.
I truly wish there was more, but the story was expertly put and I’m excited for more to come in book 4.
“You’re gonna kill me.” “Not before I drive you crazy first.” 🤍🤍🤍
If you’ve loved the first two books of the PCU series, you’ll love this one just as much. I love seeing how the series connects, mildly repeats itself but we get happy endings.
I appreciate Riley’s ability to sprinkle in trauma and either chronic illness or neurological disorders. As a celiac myself, I’ve never read a book where someone had it and it was well put and thoroughly researched.
I truly wish there was more, but the story was expertly put and I’m excited for more to come in book 4.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
ARC Review
This book is the kind of love story that sneaks up on you. Quiet. Steady. Full of heart and real emotion instead of instant perfection. Beck and Sophie feel honest. Human. Two people carrying heavy things who somehow become a soft place for each other to land.
Their chemistry isn’t loud or explosive. It’s slow and intentional and built on trust. The emotional depth of their connection is what makes this book shine. It’s soft but meaningful. Simple but heartfelt. A romance that feels like stepping into warm light.
Beck is the kind of book boyfriend who stays with you. Gentle. Respectful. Steady in a way that makes you relax without even realizing it. And Sophie has this quiet strength that shines through every moment she tries to hold her world together. Her heart for kids and her desire to help them feel safe adds such a tender depth to who she is. Watching them find safety in each other is truly the heart of the story.
This story also touches on mental health in such a thoughtful way through Beck’s background and his psychology journey. Nothing feels dramatic or heavy. It is handled with real care, and it adds a deeper emotional layer to who he is and how he loves. And the way the book portrays living with an autoimmune condition feels grounded, real, and quietly powerful.
It’s a gentle romance, but it still grips your heart. It’s emotional without ever weighing you down. And the HEA made my heart feel full.
If you love romances that feel warm, human, and deeply genuine, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
Tropes
Sports romance
Slow burn
She falls first and he falls harder
Forced proximity
Football player and cheerleader
Friends to lovers
Fake dating
Thank you so much to Riley Paige for the ARC and the chance to experience this story ahead of release. I can’t wait for book 4 End Game.
This book is the kind of love story that sneaks up on you. Quiet. Steady. Full of heart and real emotion instead of instant perfection. Beck and Sophie feel honest. Human. Two people carrying heavy things who somehow become a soft place for each other to land.
Their chemistry isn’t loud or explosive. It’s slow and intentional and built on trust. The emotional depth of their connection is what makes this book shine. It’s soft but meaningful. Simple but heartfelt. A romance that feels like stepping into warm light.
Beck is the kind of book boyfriend who stays with you. Gentle. Respectful. Steady in a way that makes you relax without even realizing it. And Sophie has this quiet strength that shines through every moment she tries to hold her world together. Her heart for kids and her desire to help them feel safe adds such a tender depth to who she is. Watching them find safety in each other is truly the heart of the story.
This story also touches on mental health in such a thoughtful way through Beck’s background and his psychology journey. Nothing feels dramatic or heavy. It is handled with real care, and it adds a deeper emotional layer to who he is and how he loves. And the way the book portrays living with an autoimmune condition feels grounded, real, and quietly powerful.
It’s a gentle romance, but it still grips your heart. It’s emotional without ever weighing you down. And the HEA made my heart feel full.
If you love romances that feel warm, human, and deeply genuine, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
Tropes
Sports romance
Slow burn
She falls first and he falls harder
Forced proximity
Football player and cheerleader
Friends to lovers
Fake dating
Thank you so much to Riley Paige for the ARC and the chance to experience this story ahead of release. I can’t wait for book 4 End Game.
November 21, 2025
Arc review -
Release date 21st Nov
Available on kindle unlimited.
Wow what a story!! 🥹♥️
He wasn’t looking for love, he’s still trying to figure out how to let anyone in. But then he meets Sophie Prescott…
The emotional dept and the conversation’s in this book was beautiful, watching Beck and Sophie slowly fall in love and not hide away from how they felt about each other, their chemistry, their friendship and emotions were so real and the slow burn GIRL talk about leaving me on the edge of my seat till they had their first kiss!
I’m in awe with these two! Beck literally pretends he lives on campus near Sophie so she doesn’t have to walk home alone, the way he has her back from the very first time they meet he’s literally the perfect book boyfriend!!
I absolutely love a friends to lovers trope so I really enjoyed watching their relationship grow from friends to something real. But when he falls he falls hard! The fake dating element was so fun to read along side their banter and texts, Paige does such a good job writing a real friends to lovers story that you feel every emotion.
This book is a beautiful unraveling of two people learning to trust again and I bloody LOVED IT!! It definitely gave me everything I wanted in a sports romance and more. Also not forgetting snickers 🥹
Release date 21st Nov
Available on kindle unlimited.
Wow what a story!! 🥹♥️
He wasn’t looking for love, he’s still trying to figure out how to let anyone in. But then he meets Sophie Prescott…
The emotional dept and the conversation’s in this book was beautiful, watching Beck and Sophie slowly fall in love and not hide away from how they felt about each other, their chemistry, their friendship and emotions were so real and the slow burn GIRL talk about leaving me on the edge of my seat till they had their first kiss!
I’m in awe with these two! Beck literally pretends he lives on campus near Sophie so she doesn’t have to walk home alone, the way he has her back from the very first time they meet he’s literally the perfect book boyfriend!!
I absolutely love a friends to lovers trope so I really enjoyed watching their relationship grow from friends to something real. But when he falls he falls hard! The fake dating element was so fun to read along side their banter and texts, Paige does such a good job writing a real friends to lovers story that you feel every emotion.
This book is a beautiful unraveling of two people learning to trust again and I bloody LOVED IT!! It definitely gave me everything I wanted in a sports romance and more. Also not forgetting snickers 🥹
November 23, 2025
Review for Play Fake!!
🏈Overall🍳
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
First, a HUGE thank you to Riley for the ARC! Let’s get to the real review
The third book in the series! Wowie…I’ve read all the book in the series, so far, and they’ve been pretty good. Perfect college-sports romance if you’re into that stuff(myself included)!
One question for the author: how are you writing so many books that are so closely released together?
Anyways, back to my comments, I thought the plot with the “play fake” or fake dating wasn’t reallyyy there because it’s not shown enough throughout the novel, it was a minor scene that kinda sits in the chaos of the more important scenes. There are scenes that stood out much better to me plus tropes that were much louder than the fake dating.
Next, the mention of foster care and the scenes with Sophie helping out were really cute. I also liked seeing their actions(Beck’s and Soph’s) towards the children and how much they care…
Lastly, all these dang football terms!! I do not understand any of these football terms 😭😭
Despite reading all three of the released PCU books I still don’t understand what half these terms mean.
Anyways let’s get to the tropes section of my review!!
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
📣Tropes!🛻
⌇ ⋆Slow-Burn
⌇ ⋆ Friends to Lovers
⌇ ⋆Sports Romance
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
🐈Highlights or Notes🍞
꒰🩶꒱They both are a psych major? One of my dream majors/career paths
꒰💜꒱ The ending was perfect to this novel…especially the epilogue
꒰🩶꒱No highlights, however the nickname he calls her…AMAZING
꒰💜꒱This book definitely brought me the giggles
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
⏲️Characters📱
Sophie Prescott 📣
Sophie was an okay character, did have some flat points here and there, but overall a great character. She’s a great match towards Beck and made him a better person as you progress through the book.
Beckham Harrison 🏈
Beck was an okay character too, however he have shape to his character. In the beginning he seems like a sad puppy…but as the reader progresses through the story Beck becomes stronger and stronger(despite some ups and downs) till we reach the end of the book!
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
Thank you soooo much for reading my review! It’s currently 4am as I’m writing this so it may be a little sloppy. See you guys for the next review 🌝🌝
🏈Overall🍳
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
First, a HUGE thank you to Riley for the ARC! Let’s get to the real review
The third book in the series! Wowie…I’ve read all the book in the series, so far, and they’ve been pretty good. Perfect college-sports romance if you’re into that stuff(myself included)!
One question for the author: how are you writing so many books that are so closely released together?
Anyways, back to my comments, I thought the plot with the “play fake” or fake dating wasn’t reallyyy there because it’s not shown enough throughout the novel, it was a minor scene that kinda sits in the chaos of the more important scenes. There are scenes that stood out much better to me plus tropes that were much louder than the fake dating.
Next, the mention of foster care and the scenes with Sophie helping out were really cute. I also liked seeing their actions(Beck’s and Soph’s) towards the children and how much they care…
Lastly, all these dang football terms!! I do not understand any of these football terms 😭😭
Despite reading all three of the released PCU books I still don’t understand what half these terms mean.
Anyways let’s get to the tropes section of my review!!
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
📣Tropes!🛻
⌇ ⋆Slow-Burn
⌇ ⋆ Friends to Lovers
⌇ ⋆Sports Romance
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
🐈Highlights or Notes🍞
꒰🩶꒱They both are a psych major? One of my dream majors/career paths
꒰💜꒱ The ending was perfect to this novel…especially the epilogue
꒰🩶꒱No highlights, however the nickname he calls her…AMAZING
꒰💜꒱This book definitely brought me the giggles
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
⏲️Characters📱
Sophie Prescott 📣
Sophie was an okay character, did have some flat points here and there, but overall a great character. She’s a great match towards Beck and made him a better person as you progress through the book.
Beckham Harrison 🏈
Beck was an okay character too, however he have shape to his character. In the beginning he seems like a sad puppy…but as the reader progresses through the story Beck becomes stronger and stronger(despite some ups and downs) till we reach the end of the book!
౨ৎ ˖ ࣪⊹ •🤍•⊹₊ ⋆୨ৎ
Thank you soooo much for reading my review! It’s currently 4am as I’m writing this so it may be a little sloppy. See you guys for the next review 🌝🌝
November 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
Play Fake is book #3 in Riley Paige’s PCU Storm series, and honestly, this is her best yet. It hits that perfect mix of heart, healing, and slow-burn tension that makes you fall for the characters before you even realize it’s happening.
Beck completely owns this book. He’s a celiac college football linebacker carrying the heavy weight of his mom’s schizophrenia, and the vulnerability he tries so hard to hide makes him impossible not to love. He’s tough, soft, loyal, and a little guarded in all the best, swooniest ways. Sophie matches him beautifully—warm, compassionate, and finally learning to step into her own power after past relationships dimmed her light. Her foster-agency storyline adds so much heart, especially in the epilogue 🥹
Their chemistry builds slowly and naturally, with just the right amount of spice—enough to get your pulse up without taking away from the emotional depth. The way they open up to each other feels so genuine and earned.
Play Fake is a standout sports romance about choosing vulnerability and love even when it scares you. Beck and Sophie linger long after the last page, and I’m honestly so sad to let them go. I’d read a whole other book about them in a heartbeat. 💜
🌶️🌶️.5
Play Fake is book #3 in Riley Paige’s PCU Storm series, and honestly, this is her best yet. It hits that perfect mix of heart, healing, and slow-burn tension that makes you fall for the characters before you even realize it’s happening.
Beck completely owns this book. He’s a celiac college football linebacker carrying the heavy weight of his mom’s schizophrenia, and the vulnerability he tries so hard to hide makes him impossible not to love. He’s tough, soft, loyal, and a little guarded in all the best, swooniest ways. Sophie matches him beautifully—warm, compassionate, and finally learning to step into her own power after past relationships dimmed her light. Her foster-agency storyline adds so much heart, especially in the epilogue 🥹
Their chemistry builds slowly and naturally, with just the right amount of spice—enough to get your pulse up without taking away from the emotional depth. The way they open up to each other feels so genuine and earned.
Play Fake is a standout sports romance about choosing vulnerability and love even when it scares you. Beck and Sophie linger long after the last page, and I’m honestly so sad to let them go. I’d read a whole other book about them in a heartbeat. 💜
November 25, 2025
Beck and Sophie are simply the sweetest! Sophie has the biggest hearts ever, she wants to help everyone she can. Beck may have had a bit of a rough start in life with some issues with his mom, but his dad has made sure to make sure he has had a good life. Sophie and Beck have amazing chemistry and their banter is fantastic. Beck was hurt by his last girlfriend, so he is waiting and careful when it comes to women and I love how he is protective and careful. They may have started off fake dating to get her ex off her back, but they slowly grow closer and the feeling grow. I loved watching them get closer and it was so beautiful. They built a genuine friendship where they learned to trust one another and open up, but then it turned to more and it was no longer fake. At some point those “accidental” touches aren’t accidental anymore and the flirting became so cute and meant so much more.
December 19, 2025
(4.5⭐️) I loved everything about this book. I spent the whole night reading it and couldn’t stop. Beck and Sophie were the perfect match. He was there for her before he even knew who she was and after bad past relationships they were exactly what each other needed.
Honestly 10/10 on all accounts. The characters were so good and have such interesting stories. They were also both so nice you couldn’t help but love them. The plot line and pace of the story was really good. There was some friends to lovers and fake dating that happened and it didn’t feel forced or out of place it was so well done. There’s also a lot of good representation for celiac disease, which I honestly learned a lot from reading this, and schizophrenia. Also the football player/cheerleader trope was perfect. Definitely recommend everyone to read this.
Honestly 10/10 on all accounts. The characters were so good and have such interesting stories. They were also both so nice you couldn’t help but love them. The plot line and pace of the story was really good. There was some friends to lovers and fake dating that happened and it didn’t feel forced or out of place it was so well done. There’s also a lot of good representation for celiac disease, which I honestly learned a lot from reading this, and schizophrenia. Also the football player/cheerleader trope was perfect. Definitely recommend everyone to read this.
November 21, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨ 4⭐️ From the moment they first meet there is something different between Beck and Sophie. He steps in to save her and feels down to protect her. Beck is trying to figure out his next steps…does he want football or does he want to go down a different path. Sophie has her future path all figured out and she’s determined to make it happen. Her parents are adamant about giving the guy they like a second chance so Beck steps in as her fake boyfriend. When they find themselves working on a class project together though the lines between fake and real start to blur. They both have plans and no time for a relationship but the bond they share might just be too strong to pass up.
I really loved the way Beck treated Sophie throughout the whole book. He instantly was there to protect her because he knew what it was like to be where she was. He then instantly steps in as her fake boyfriend. He truly becomes her safe space. They both help each other navigate so many hard things and hard choices and come out stronger because of it. They have a foundation of such a strong friendship that it seamlessly transitions into more and they also seamlessly meld into each other lives. Another sweet story in this series!!
Tropes:
✨Football Romance
✨Fake Dating
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Forced Proximity
✨Slow Burn
I really loved the way Beck treated Sophie throughout the whole book. He instantly was there to protect her because he knew what it was like to be where she was. He then instantly steps in as her fake boyfriend. He truly becomes her safe space. They both help each other navigate so many hard things and hard choices and come out stronger because of it. They have a foundation of such a strong friendship that it seamlessly transitions into more and they also seamlessly meld into each other lives. Another sweet story in this series!!
Tropes:
✨Football Romance
✨Fake Dating
✨Friends to Lovers
✨Forced Proximity
✨Slow Burn
November 22, 2025
This is the third book in this awesome series, and this is Beck and Sophie’s story.
Beck is not looking for love after a betrayal and Sophie has just endured that same. Sophie makes it impossible to ignore her, as they keep sharing glances at each other in their shared advanced psych class.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tension, betrayal, heartbreak, forced proximity, football player / cheerleader, fake dating, challenges, healing, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartwarming page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Beck is not looking for love after a betrayal and Sophie has just endured that same. Sophie makes it impossible to ignore her, as they keep sharing glances at each other in their shared advanced psych class.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tension, betrayal, heartbreak, forced proximity, football player / cheerleader, fake dating, challenges, healing, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartwarming page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
December 5, 2025
⭐️4.5
Thank you to Riley Page for the eARC of Play Fake, book three in the PCU Storm Series! After meeting Beck in the first two books, I just knew he was going to completely steal my heart—and wow, did he ever. His chemistry with Sophie was undeniable, and I loved every moment of their journey together. From long-time friends to fake dating to finally embracing that soulmate-level connection, their story had me grinning, swooning, and kicking my feet the entire time.
I truly devoured this book. Riley has built such an addicting world with the Storm boys—each book pulls me in deeper, and Play Fake might just be my favorite yet. The mix of humor, heart, and slow-burn tension was absolute perfection.
Now I’m anxiously counting down the days until book four. I cannot wait to dive into Logan Brooks’ story and see how his best-friend’s-sister romance unfolds. ❤️
Thank you to Riley Page for the eARC of Play Fake, book three in the PCU Storm Series! After meeting Beck in the first two books, I just knew he was going to completely steal my heart—and wow, did he ever. His chemistry with Sophie was undeniable, and I loved every moment of their journey together. From long-time friends to fake dating to finally embracing that soulmate-level connection, their story had me grinning, swooning, and kicking my feet the entire time.
I truly devoured this book. Riley has built such an addicting world with the Storm boys—each book pulls me in deeper, and Play Fake might just be my favorite yet. The mix of humor, heart, and slow-burn tension was absolute perfection.
Now I’m anxiously counting down the days until book four. I cannot wait to dive into Logan Brooks’ story and see how his best-friend’s-sister romance unfolds. ❤️
November 14, 2025
I received this as an ARC.
After reading (and loving) the first 2 in the PCU series I was so excited to be able to get this one as well. Also love me a good sports romance
This one was definitely a different vibe (in a good way) from the first 2. This was more serious and deeper emotions with the plot and storyline of the characters.
Beck and Soph became one of my favorites of the series. Both gone through a lot, definitely loved the slow burn and how their relationship progressed and of course the happily ever after .
If you like the first 2 in this series you will definitely like this one as well!!! Can’t wait for book #4
After reading (and loving) the first 2 in the PCU series I was so excited to be able to get this one as well. Also love me a good sports romance
This one was definitely a different vibe (in a good way) from the first 2. This was more serious and deeper emotions with the plot and storyline of the characters.
Beck and Soph became one of my favorites of the series. Both gone through a lot, definitely loved the slow burn and how their relationship progressed and of course the happily ever after .
If you like the first 2 in this series you will definitely like this one as well!!! Can’t wait for book #4
November 9, 2025
I loved Beck and Sophie’s story 🥹 He’s the football star with trust issues, and she’s done with her parents pushing her towards her awful ex. Beck and Sophie were drawn to each other from the moment they met so when Beck sees her in need of help he doesn’t hesitate to step in. Their slow burn was so good and the spice was worth the wait 🙌🏻 I cannot wait for Logan’s book but sad the series is coming to an end 🥹
November 11, 2025
I am so grateful to have been given this ARC.
I absolutely adored Sophie and Beck. They both carry trauma from previous relationships, and the way Beck protects his heart is both beautiful and heartbreaking — because WHO WOULD HURT THIS GUY?!
The tension was insane, but I loved how they made sure to build a solid friendship before going anywhere else. Their relationship is just so, so, so pure. And my gooood, she fell first — but when he fell too, he fell so hard, and I loved that!!
I did miss Jax, Madison, Carter, and Lyla a bit! But it made sense for the storyline since they entered the NFL, and I was very happy with the short Jax and Carter appearance and chats.
I will forever recommend this series when someone asks for a sports romance.
Also, I NEEEEED Logan’s book!! Love that man.
I absolutely adored Sophie and Beck. They both carry trauma from previous relationships, and the way Beck protects his heart is both beautiful and heartbreaking — because WHO WOULD HURT THIS GUY?!
The tension was insane, but I loved how they made sure to build a solid friendship before going anywhere else. Their relationship is just so, so, so pure. And my gooood, she fell first — but when he fell too, he fell so hard, and I loved that!!
I did miss Jax, Madison, Carter, and Lyla a bit! But it made sense for the storyline since they entered the NFL, and I was very happy with the short Jax and Carter appearance and chats.
I will forever recommend this series when someone asks for a sports romance.
Also, I NEEEEED Logan’s book!! Love that man.
November 8, 2025
I was lucky enough to get an ARC. And I LOVED it. Beck and Sophie were everything I was hoping for! This book was definitely my favorite of this series.
November 9, 2025
Wow this story is not just a football romance it’s so much more . It’s a slow burn friends to lovers romance that’s filled with so much patience & understanding than most. It’s a time in their lives at a cross road, decisions for the future loom and overbearing parents try to make decisions for them. It’s learning to be patient with your heart & your feeling and allowing yourself to grieve after breakups .
It’s about doing what’s right for yourself and following your own path. Their story is soft and beautiful. I really enjoyed this book and this series is fantastic.
Highly recommend this book it’s like a breath of fresh air.
It’s about doing what’s right for yourself and following your own path. Their story is soft and beautiful. I really enjoyed this book and this series is fantastic.
Highly recommend this book it’s like a breath of fresh air.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 23, 2025
This book was my least favorite in the series. The author has admitted on social media that she struggles with writing spice and asked in polls if readers would care if she went to more closed door romance. I don’t know what the results were of the poll but this book has so little spice. There is like one scene that would allow the author to say it isn’t closed door but in my opinion it was written in a way that it is closed door. And then the author tries to say it is slow burn. This was basically Hallmark style romance. It wasn’t slow burn. And that would all be fine if that was how it was advertised from the beginning and the previous books in the series were that way. But it’s not. This book seemed forced - like she was forcing the characters out of her. Just not my favorite.
November 28, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ fake dating, cheerleader and football player, both got cheated on, no spice, feel good HEA
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