Catch Me If You Can

by Eliza P.

Stacy is the queen of the mat—fierce, focused, and totally allergic to her relentlessly cheerful teammate, Reece Taylor. So when senior year throws them together as stunt partners, she’s determined to keep it strictly business. Nail the routines, graduate college, and move on.



But family drama never takes a break. Between living in the shadow of her sister’s perfect life and Reece’s ex marrying his brother (yikes), the two rivals strike a fake a relationship to survive their tangled family obligations so they can focus on cheer.



The plan? Be madly in love for family functions, go back to being partners at practice.



The problem? They’re both pretending until they’re not.

452 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2025

Reviews

[Jess Con · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this as an advance reader copy in exchange for sharing an honest opinion.

First and foremost I read for the vibes. I love a story that makes me feel, and this gave me ALL THE FEELS. I received this on Friday, and opened it after work just wanting to relax and get a few chapters deep. I ended up devouring it in 1 sitting. I laughed out loud, and cried. I connected with this story and I needed them to be together. I don’t always love a third act breakup but literally the MMC being responsible and communicative? God it made him even hotter.

Do I know much about college sports? No. Did that hinder me? Literally not in the slightest. It was slow burn with a bit of spice towards the end, but the yearning throughout was perfect. When they are both decent people working through their trauma? It felt so real. I literally wanted to hang out with these folks.

It was everything I didn’t know I wanted; slow burn, found family, overcoming deep personal issues - I felt a lot of connection to the FMC and her struggles. This pulled on all of the heart strings.

If you want romcom college sports, slow burn, with an extremely satisfying story THIS IS IT.

10/10 for me and it will be a reread when I need a feel good story.

[Virginie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catch Me If You Can – Eliza P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.75)

I went into this book with zero expectations and ended up loving it. A sports romance centered around cheerleading? That’s not something you see every day — and it was such a refreshing change! The story is well-paced and heartfelt, with characters that feel real, flawed, and deeply emotional. I laughed, I cried, and I felt every moment alongside them. And Reece… what can I even say? Absolutely swoon-worthy. This book was a beautiful surprise and a truly enjoyable read.

_____

Catch Me If You Can – Eliza P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.75)

Je ne m’attendais à rien en commençant ce livre, mais j’ai été agréablement surprise. Une romance sportive centrée sur le cheerleading? C’est plutôt rare — et c’est justement ce qui rend cette histoire si rafraîchissante. L’intrigue est bien ficelée, les personnages sont vrais, touchants et profondément humains. J’ai ri, j’ai même pleuré, et j’ai vécu chaque émotion avec eux. Et que dire de Reece… absolument irrésistible. Ce livre a été une très belle surprise et une lecture que j’ai énormément appréciée.

[BloggingBooks& Banter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Co-ed cheerleading enemies to lovers.. Need I say more?

I am not a sports romance girly. Not in the sense of, I don’t like sports romance though. I’m just not incredibly versed in sports romance. That being said, I wasn’t sure how I would feel about this initially. I ended up loving it. The lore behind Reece’s family dynamic was incredibly intriguing. The romance immersed you. Also, who doesn’t love a good fake dating trope or enemies to lovers? Eliza hands you a perfect love story in Catch Me If You Can.

[Annette Doner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received this book as an ARC. This was such a cute read! Knowing almost nothing about cheerleading I feel like everything related to it in the book was explained in a way everyone could understand. It had the right amount of spice to cute ratio and I could NOT put it down!

[Nik Rose · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nik’s Arc Review
🤸‍♀️Catch Me If You Can by Eliza P.
💗 Genre: Contemporary Romance
📃 Page Count: 452
🗓️ Publish Date: 10/1/2025

📖Read if you like:
Fake dating
Sports romance
Spice

📕 Story Premise:
Stacy is all tough and determined, only focused on cheer. While Reece is all smiles and sunshine, just happy to be there for the ride. When they’re paired up for to be stunt partners for their senior year, it’s a total mess. They clash, bicker, and just can’t get in sync to stick their landings. However, things take a turn when they realize they have more in common than they thought, especially when it comes to their complicated and messy families. To keep their relatives from meddling in their lives and worrying about their we’ll-being, they pretend to date. But soon, the pretend flirting start to feel a little too real.

💘 OTP Energy:
I couldn’t wait for our grumpy Stacy and golden retriever Reece to finally let their guards down and fall for each other. The miscommunication between them was starting to wear me out, but it was so satisfying when they finally called each other out and started being honest.

🌶️ Spice Scale:
With all the tension building between these two, I was definetly expecting the spice and sparks, and I was not disappointed. Expect open door scenes packed with so much chemistry that will make you swoon and feel the heat.

⏰ Flow Factor:
I love when romance stories are told from dual POV. Switching between Reece and Stacy made the chapters flow so smoothly and kept me totally hooked. It was such an easy, enjoyable read. The ending felt a little rushed though, and a of new subplot popped up that didn’t quite fit.

Final Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really loved first two thirds of the book. I was all for the faking dating, the banter, and the chemistry between Stacy and Reece. BUT come on, his brother and fiancé were literally the worst. They did not deserve the ending they got.

Thank you Eliza P. For giving me an eARC in exchange for an honest review!!!

[Megan Rohr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was everything I want in a romance novel. It also doesn’t hurt that it’s based where I live, which was nice, I feel like no one cares about Ohio 😂

Reece & Stacy begin fake dating to help each other out with their families- getting Reece through wedding events for his brother & ex’s upcoming nuptials 👀 & Stacy through family functions where she feels like she comes in second place next to her newly pregnant sister.

Obviously, fake feelings turn into real ones. But what these two go through to get to end game is beautiful, emotionally raw and heart wrenching. On top of the emotions, Eliza gave us spice, humor, a black cat & a golden retriever, and a friend group that I wish I was in.
I relate so much to both Reece (feeling like I have to be sunshine all the time) & Stacy (feeling Iike I can’t compete sometimes). The way they find peace and happiness within themselves and each other is just 🤌

🌻Favorite quote: “It’s the kind of smile that hurts your cheeks, that feels impossible to wipe off. It’s the kind of smile that only happens when you’re really, truly happy.”
♥️ A quote that broke me: “I’m sorry, Mom, […] I’m tired.” 🥹😭

This will definitely be one that will be reread probably multiple times. I hope to someday see some of the other characters stories unravel as well 🤞🏻

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really fun and sweet sports romance.

Before anything else: Evan is the absolute worst and deserves no god things. I will die on this hill. Tashia is a close second, Evan still wins.

Moving on. First, I love that it’s about cheer and both main characters are in cheer. It’s about time! It was also a good level of spice for me and the banter was realistic and not cringey.

The main characters were fantastic. Reece was the best. All the golden retriever energy. Plus, always getting consent. Amazing. I love when books show how easy it is to talk about consent.

I related so much to Stacy. Full disclosure, I hate 3rd act breakups. Despise them. BUT. This one at least made sense and wasn’t some silly misunderstanding. I will admit that this one worked for the story.

I’m excited to see this is the first in a series. I definitely want to hear more about the other couples revealed in the book. Not Evan and Tashia. The worst.


I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Chandra Reiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eliza sent me an eARC of Catch Me If You Can (THANK YOU!!!) and I CANNOT say enough about this book. I was a little bit nervous at first because I am not typically a sports romance girly. BUT the fact that the two main characters are both cheerleaders was so refreshing to me! A very unique take on a sports romance book that I haven't seen before.

THINGS I LOVED: The fact that Reece was so communicative and understanding, the character development of both of the main characters, the spice (which was the perfect amount and not cringy), and all the lovable side characters (pls pls give me a book about mae and miles).

THINGS I DIDN'T LIKE: Tashia and Evan. Period. I know they got an arc at the end but I'm not completely sure they deserved them. I get it, every character should develop and grow but after what they did to Reece and Tashia, I'm not loving that they got a happy ever after LOL.

Eliza's writing style was so fun to me and the book was SO easy to fly through. Definitely interested in reading more from this author!!

[Cassidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Catch Me If You Can by Eliza P is everything I want in a college romance and more! The story pulls you right into the world of cheerleading, where the tension, drama, and intensity off the mat are just as addictive as the routines on it.

The fake dating trope is done so well here—playful, flirty, and just the right amount of angsty until it slowly but surely turns into something real. I loved how the dynamic unfolded, especially with him chasing her in such a determined yet swoony way. Their chemistry absolutely crackles, and once things heat up… let’s just say Eliza P does not hold back. It’s smutty in the best way, perfectly balanced with heart and character depth.

If you love a good college sports romance with fake dating, cheerleader vibes, and a hero who knows exactly what (or who) he wants, this is a must-read. I couldn’t put it down—and now I’m obsessed.

[Andrea Coe · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH.MY.GOSH. Okay, hear me out. This book is hands down one of my favorites now. That easily. I won't give any spoilers. To be honest, I quite literally judged a book by it's cover and I thought this looked cute and would be a cute little read in between my series I was reading. However, I was unsure about the college & sports romance, but let me tell ya, it's not what you think. It's so much more!!! I absolutely did not expect to love it so much! It made me smile and laugh more times than I could count. This book is deliciously meticulous and absorbing! The spice is 👏🏻🔥🌶 I couldn't put it down, and when I did, it's all I could think about - those are the best kinds of books!! I will 100% be buying a physical copy and recommending this book! If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I undoubtedly would!!

[Alena · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC - This was such a fun, light-hearted read that completely surprised me. I don't know much about cheerleading but the story was easy to follow along, relate and it pulled me right in. The Main character, Stacy is strong and independent and I love how Reece was so direct and determined when it came to his feelings for her. The dynamic between the two characters was so much fun to watch and unfold.

It had me smiling, laughing and flipping pages way past my bedtime! And yes this book did deliver spice! It is the perfect balance between funny and just enough drama to keep me engaged but not rolling my eyes.

If you are looking for a fun, light hearted romance that will lift your mood and have you smiling or even chuckling outload, this is the book. I can't wait for the 2nd book to release!

[Stephania · Rating 5 out of 5]

*An ARC read* This book was everything, I mean the main couple was so cute and funny together I couldn’t wait to continue reading. I swear this book isn’t just a five star read, I think it’s a 10(if possible read) for me. I mean I disliked the third act break up but I understood it because Stacy needed to love herself before letting my sweet baby Reece can have her forever. I want a relationship like theirs because ugh it was so cute I was squealing and them doing the things they said they did to get to “dating” was excellent work.Ms.P if you ever need another reader I am gladly volunteer and I would to see a book about Mea and Miles in the future, thank you.

[Tailyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received this book as an ARC and what a wonderfully written book. University level co-ed cheerleading romance with some spice? Absolutely my new obsession 🤤 I didn’t know much about cheerleading going into this but it felt natural to understand thanks to the author.

I almost instantly fell in love with Reece and Stacy. A mixture of enemies to lovers plus fake dating. Incredible character building for the main characters and side characters. The story line was brilliant.

My jaw was on the floor at the end too … a little twist to an already amazing story.

Add this to your TBR! Highly recommend it! - October 1, 2025 release date 🥳

[Shanun Renshaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received as an ARC. Absolutely loved this book. Five stars! The banter and one liners from reece had me highlighting away! I couldn’t stop laughing. The slow burn, found family and just the emotion elements made the story.

The whole situation with Evan and tashia was wild. Really disliked her the whole time until the ending. Glad she made things right.

Hoping for more books on Gemma and Drew and Mae and Miles. I need to know how all of that started and came about.

I will be pre ordering a physical copy.

[Ophelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Received an ARC copy of this book and I am IN LOVE. Without saying too much or spoiling anything, I'll just say that Reece Taylor is my new book bf. I've never read a cheerleading sports romance before and I think the concept is so interesting! Also the MMC being a cheerleader too was so refreshing. The spice, the banter, the cozy campus vibes, the golden retriever boy and grumpy girl... 10/10.

Dying and hoping for some interconnected standalones about the side characters!! Need more Wing Haven ASAP.

[Maranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first ARC book to read. I absolutely loved this book! Reece and Stacey’s love story was realistic with daily struggles and drama that occur during college years. I loved following the group of cheerleaders and their sport playing friends along their journey in college. This contains some spicy love scenes along with an adorable and adventurous love story! I hope to read more books like this from the author. I will be purchasing this book once it’s available for my best to read so we can discuss it! Great book!

[Justine Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. This seems to be inspired by the Daniel Buyeske and Bodhi stunt videos which is totally my jam. I actually wish this had more sports scenes in it as there was so much potential for ahem other activities.
Miscommunication trope became meta and caught itself before it actualized which was refreshing. Hated the brother’s fiancée as is the point, and loved the aide character’s obsession with musical theatre.
Very cure and fluffy read with some 🌶️🌶️🌶️ sprinked in, woukd recommend.

[Cierra Perez · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4.5 Stars

This book was so much fun to read!! First off, I know nothing about cheerleading, but I felt like I definitely understood most of what I needed after the first couple of chapters. Secondly, I love how much of a force and independent Stacy could be, and I love how Reece was so determined and straightforward with his feelings for her. The story was very compelling, and I could not stop reading. I'm very curious to see what's next!

P.S.: The last chapter was my favorite and was absolutely amazing!

[Cristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my GOODNESS!!! Reece and Stacey!!! As a former cheerleader, I immediately jumped at the chance to read this before its release! This author was new to me and I think she is making a home in my top authors list with this one!! The banter, the steam, the plot and story, the side characters…everything was superb!! Emotional and hilarious and the steamy scenes were sooo hot! I absolutely loved this book! I immediately went to check Eliza’s backlist for more! I need alllllll the Wing Haven books as they release!! You have a forever fan in me!

[Cheyenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC for a review.

This was the cutest book with just enough spice. it had me feeling all the feels! It had Me laughing specially during the spider scene! Had me crying during the morning after the bar scene. It was such a good and easy read. I could hardly put it down. I was skeptical because of the cheerleading but im so glad I pushed through because this was worth the 5 stars!!

[Katie Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super glad to receive this ARC! This was such a fun easy read! I was not sure how I was going to like it as I am not big into cheerleading, but was surprised how much I enjoyed it! Emmies to lovers is my favorite trope and it did not disappoint! I loved the banter between Reece and Stacy. I also loved seeing them grow as individuals while they were on a break. They have both been through so much individually, I loved seeing them find each other! Definitely would recommend reading it!

[Kasey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catch Me If You Can by Eliza P is a fun, fast-paced enemies-to-lovers romance set against the backdrop of college cheerleading. The banter between the leads is sharp, the tension is high, and the cheer setting adds such a fresh, energetic vibe. If you love competitive dynamics, slow-burn attraction, and just the right amount of sass mixed with sweetness, this one will keep you flipping the pages.

[Keiana Cobb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recieved this book as my first ARC.

Catch Me If You Can had a me constantly grabbing at my kindle! It was funny, sweet, and had my emotions all over the place.
I loved the faked dating, to blurred lines, to real relationship. Both main characters go through big character developments too.

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Catch Me If You Can by Eliza P was such a fun and charming read! The story kept me hooked from the very beginning—playful, sweet, and full of heart. Definitely a feel-good page turner. Definitely recommend this book(:

[Barbara Jowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Normally I’m not into sports romance, but this one was super cute! Such a great story line and interesting character development. Would definitely recommend

[Emily Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fun! I loved Stacy and Reece’s story. It was such a fast paced book and a great rom com. I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a college cheer romance. So cute!

[Jaeann · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you look at my profile, you can clearly see that I am a huge lover of a sports romance especially if it’s spicy!!
This book has it ALL!
sports romance ? ✅
enemies to lovers? ✅
lovable and supportive friend group? ✅
spicy scenes? very few but the ones there - are amazing! ✅

So if you are a lover of sports romances, please please please give this book a try! It’s a CHEERLEADER x CHEERLEADER romance which is soooo rare!

[Cassie Kamphuis · Rating 4 out of 5]

​Book Title: Catch Me If You Can
Author: Eliza P
Tropes: College Romance, Sports Romance (Cheerleading), ​D​islike-to-Lovers, Fake Dating, He Falls First, Found Family, Family Drama​, Golden Retriever x Black Cat
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

⸻
🤩 The Vibe:
Playful, emotional, and completely unputdownable. This isn’t just a cheerleading romance—it’s a story about pressure, rivalry, and finding someone who shows up for you in exactly the way you need. With razor-sharp banter, fake dating chaos, and a hero who has been quietly ​c​rushing for years, Catch Me If You Can is equal parts swoony, spicy, and heartfelt.

⸻
👩‍❤️‍👨 Main Characters:
Stacy – Fierce, focused, and not about to let her relentlessly cheerful ​n​ew stunt partner get under her skin… until he absolutely does. A powerhouse on the mat, but struggling to step out of her sister’s shadow and find her own balance.
Reece – Sunshiney, loyal, and low-key obsessed with Stacy for years. He falls hard, first, and forever. His mix of playful humor, quiet persistence, and that perfectly understated grand gesture made him unforgettable.

⸻
💕 What I Loved:
• The fake dating setup — family obligations on both sides, making it double the chaos and fun
• Reece’s years-long crush finally paying off (he fell hard and fast, and it was so swoony)
• Their banter — hilarious one-liners, sharp comebacks, and chemistry that sparked from page one
• The way Reece gave Stacy the space she needed while still showing up consistently in the background 🥹
• The cheerleading world — ​This was a new one for me! Competitive, high energy, and such a fun backdrop for the romance
• The found family vibes in the friend group (give me Mae & Miles’s story next, please 👀)

⸻
🚫 What Didn’t Work For Me:
• The typical third-act breakup — I didn’t love it, but the way Reece handled it (patient, loyal, quietly pursuing) totally redeemed it.
• Reece’s brother and ex… absolute villains, and I can’t believe he put up with them as long as he did.

⸻
🤔 Final Thoughts:
Catch Me If You Can is everything I want in a college sports romance: fake dating that turns deliciously real, a ​g​olden retriever hero who knows exactly who he wants, and a fierce heroine learning to let herself be loved. Eliza P nailed the balance of laugh-out-loud banter, swoony romance, and emotional depth.

This book had me highlighting nonstop, swooning over Reece’s every move, and dying for more stories from this friend group. Five stars, easy.