Red Zone

PCU Storm, Book 2

By: Riley Paige

Narrated by: Austin Stone, CJ Bloom

Carter

I’ve spent my whole life proving people wrong. From foster homes to the football field, I clawed my way out, one yard at a time. And now? I’m on the verge of everything I’ve worked for. The draft. The NFL. The future I’ve always dreamed about.

Except all I can think about… is her. Lyla Harding–my coach’s daughter.

Lyla

Carter Hayes is a walking headline waiting to happen. And I’m the one who’s supposed to keep his image clean.

He’s infuriating. Arrogant. Impossible to ignore. And the more I tell myself he’s just another assignment… the harder it gets to pretend he isn’t everything I’ve ever wanted.

Choosing him could cost me everything I’ve worked for. But staying away might break me anyway.

©2025 Riley Paige (P)2025 Riley Paige

Swoon…Carter is all in

What really elevated this story, though, was the emotional depth. Lila struggles with OCD and anxiety, and we see how deeply her mom’s passing impacted her—especially during high-stress moments. Watching her navigate panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, and the feeling of being replaced as her dad moves on was handled with care and nuance. It added a very real layer to her character.

Carter, meanwhile, isn’t just the carefree golden boy everyone thinks he is. His whole happy-go-lucky persona is a front. Growing up in the foster system left him with deep fears of not being chosen, not being wanted, not truly belonging anywhere. Seeing these two—both carrying their own wounds—learn to show up for each other was incredibly sweet.

Even when they decide to part ways, Lila choosing him through her actions (especially organizing a fundraiser for foster kids because she knew how much it would mean to him) said more than any grand declaration could. That quiet, intentional love? It got me.

The love story!

I loved the story. How they stayed faithful to each other and in love! I was so surprised that they were able to stay away from each other.
I also loved that he asked her father for his daughter’s hand in marriage!

Great read!!

Awesome read, will be going back for a second round. Beautiful story line, great happy ending, and just enough open door spice to keep every taste interested. Love how it was suspenseful, but also not other woman tacky. And the narrator’s and the duel narration were great! Can’t wait to read the rest of the series!