They’ll Never Catch Us

Stella lost her cross-country scholarship to Georgetown when her competitive spirit caused an injury to another runner. Returning this year, she hopes to beat her personal record and earn the scholarship back. However, she knows she’ll have the greatest competition from her sister, Ellie, who also hopes to secure a scholarship. Then Mila joins the team, and Stella and Ellie both know they will have to be on top of their game as Mila is known for her speed. When Mila doesn’t show up for school and then misses work, rumors abound that the serial killer who brutally murdered three girls years ago is back. With practices threatened and a killer on the loose, Stella doesn’t know how she’ll secure her future and avoid being pegged as a suspect by the police based on her past record.

Surprisingly, drinking scenes are plentiful among this group of competitive athletes. Though diverse characters in terms of both race and sexuality are part of the group of runners, the real theme is the bond of sisterhood and family. Many references to the inequity of girls in sports, and to the acceptable behaviors and choices for girls, make this a prime “girl power” read.