Ethan

Nolan U Hockey #1

by Katy Archer, Lucia Cosi (translator)

He lost a bet, now it's no girls for a month… until he meets a sassy freshman who just might be the girl of his dreams.

What can I say? I got cocky. One drunken bet and now I've gotta go girl-free for a whole frickin' month.

A bet's a bet, though, and now I have to man-up and take it… but it's gonna be impossible after last night. Ever since I saved that sassy little freshman from a carload of sleaze bags, she's been under my skin. It's not just the fact that she's a hottie. It's more about the fact that she didn't bat her eyelashes or flirt with me. If anything, she insulted me to my face and told me she could take care of herself.

And now I'm hooked. I couldn't get enough of that tomboy trash talk and now I want to know everything about her… including the secret I'm sure she's hiding. But I need to steer clear, right? I can't go falling for some girl and reneging on this bet.

The consequences could get me kicked off the team… but I have to have her. I have to make her mine.

Genres: Hockey, Sports, Romance, Sports Romance, College, Hockey Romance, Contemporary

350 pages, Paperback

First published December 26, 2024

About the author

Katy Archer is the author of sweet and spicy college sports romance. Her debut novel, The Forbidden Freshman, released in February 2024 and is for fans of slow burn hockey romance, forbidden love, and found families.

In her novels you're guaranteed to find happy endings, protective book boyfriends and sassy heroines. Welcome to the world of Nolan U, where love is a game changer…

You can find out more on her website and sign up for a sneak peek of The Forbidden Freshman!

Reviews

[Amber Gregory · Rating 1 out of 5]

to the person who said “oh you liked the off campus series, read this”. I hope both sides of your pillow are eternally warm

[mia whittaker · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read it. I hated it. The plot was decent it had the potential to be a good book but the writing was so bad and cringey. The way the characters spoke was so junior high and not college at all! The smut was mid and I feel like after the whole secret abt the bet and the deal got out the rest of it was filler to make the book longer. As I said the plot was fine but I just couldn’t with the writing. In the middle of one of the chapters Ethan refers to himself in the third person but it’s not fitting in context and it wasn’t to be funny or ironic it was just stupid. I wanted to DNF but I didn’t. I lowk wish I did though. Also the author tried to make Mick so quirky and not like the other girls but she was just snoring and a pick me. I hated her she was insufferable and if I met her I’d punch her she was so annoying.

[Tijana · Rating 2 out of 5]

Stop saying puck!!!

[Anila · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so addicting! I could not stop reading it and finished it in less than a day!

I loved the FMC Mikayla! She was tough with a no nonsense attitude. She did not make it easy for Ethan to break through her walls. But once he did, those two were goners for each other. And Ethan! I adored him as well. The two of them were just so perfect together. The teasing and banter between them was amazing! There was just so much angst and sexual tension. The spice was excellent. The reverse grumpy-sunshine dynamic also worked so well in this book. I especially loved the beginning where Mikayla is trying to flirt with Ethan for her sorority initiation and how she absolutely hated it. She would drag her feet whenever it came to charming Ethan, but he wouldn’t care and liked her true grumpy and blunt self. There was just so many hilarious and fun moments in the book.

The found family with the boys from Hockey House was a nice touch as well. It is always one my favorite tropes in college romance books. All in all, I am obsessed with this book and I can’t wait for the rest of the books in the series.

Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[veraagoti · Rating 2 out of 5]

why were they saying “puck that” or “puck off” as if it were an insult 💀💀💀 i died dead
the audacity of this characters to be so plain and cringy; they were literally in love from the start, the plot was not good even though it could had been if the characters weren’t that basic…

[Janice · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 14%. Just couldn’t take the stupidity of mom and the sorority.

[Rebecca♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

*LETTURA IN COLLABORAZIONE CON LA CASA EDITRICE*🧡
Questo libro è stata una piacevole scoperta, da tanto che non leggevo un libro così scorrevole che mi prendesse dal primo capitolo fino alla fine della storia!🧡
I protagonisti sono Ethan e Mikayla: lui è un giocatore di hockey, che per colpa di una scommessa non potrà andare a letto con nessuna ragazza; però questa "missione" si rivelerà piuttosto complicata per lui quando incontrerà, per puro caso, la bella e simpatica Mikayla.🧡
Lei, invece, è una ragazza che si è trasferita da poco dalla California, a causa della madre che si è fidanzata con il padre di Aimee, che è a capo della confraternita "Sig Be", e visto che lei non la sopporta ha in mente un piano per lei: se vuole essere accettata nella sua confraternita dovrà conquistare Ethan e poi spezzargli il cuore.🧡
Per quanto riguarda la storia in sé non è molto originale, in quanto ci troviamo di fronte alla trope dove lui è il ragazzo popolare mentre lei la ragazza appena arrivata che non conosce nessuno, però il libro è così scorrevole (grazie anche alla presenza di capitoli molto corti) che non mi è pesata per niente la lettura.🧡
Ritornando nuovamente ai protagonisti, mi sono piaciuti entrambi moltissimo, Ethan che da ragazzo che pensa solo a divertirsi diventa un perfetto golden boy che ha occhi solo per lei; mentre Mikayla che, a differenza della maggior parte delle protagoniste femminili, ha sempre la risposta pronta, è divertente e non si lascia intimorire da nessuno.🧡
Nonostante il libro mi sia piaciuto molto, ci sono state delle dinamiche e degli elementi che non mi hanno convinta a pieno, ecco perché la mia valutazione è 4⭐️, però consiglio a tutte di dare una possibilità a questo libro, in quanto si è rivelato una lettura molto carina, e anche a chi ama gli hockey romance.🏒
Non vedo l'ora di poter leggere gli altri libri di questa serie, che avranno come protagonisti i compagni di squadra di Ethan!🧡

[☾ Nikki. ✿ SUGARVOGUE. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book is out: February 6th.

The Forbidden Freshman.. what a great read. If you love romance and hockey then this will suit you.
I really love all the characters and their own individual stories. I also love all the boys in the hockey house!

I really enjoyed the writing style of this and thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish.

It ended with a sneak peek into the next book which I’m excited to read! Can’t wait for the next book with Liam and Rachel! 😍

A good read!

Thankyou so much to the author for sending this ARC in exchange for a honest review!

[Lauren Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! Filled with humor, swoons, and spicy scenes, I fell in love with the characters. The banter was hysterical and the emotions portrayed throughout the book as it unfolded really made for a great story. Not only did I love the characters of Ethan and Mikayla, but the guys on Ethan’s team who helped Mikayla find herself and accept her for who she is, and Mikayla’s friend Rachel who was there for her even way far away, all helped moved the story along both plot wise and connection wise.

The writing itself was great! It obviously makes the story, but the style of writing came across as so real and so easy to connect with. There are laugh out loud moments, there are ohmygodnoway moments, and there are the awwww moments. It was just so well done and so fun to read. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the rest of the Hockey House boys.

[Becky Price · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was sent to men exchange for an honest review.

Such a cute story, but that miscommunication trope drove me NUTS! There are so many ways both of our characters could have handled their situations and been open and honest. I understand that "Captain Hero" made a bet he couldn't tell anyone about, but his best friend could have. Regardless, I still had a good time, I really, really liked our main female character, and I'm pretty excited for book two even though it seems like it's going to be a lot darker and more serious.

[Kitty · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF @ 80%. It started off okay, but quickly became repetitive. I didn’t really connect with the main characters, as they just kept complaining about the same things, which made it boring after a while. With more character and plot development, it could have better. Unfortunately, I have too many books on my TBR to keep reading something I’m not enjoying, so I ended up giving up.

[Naii Hawley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was craving for a good college hockey romance and this book delivered and checked every box i was craving for. The banter, the tension, the angst and Ethan sure made me swoon! it was a good read all in all!

[Kaelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! Ethan and Mikayla fit together better than you could imagine and it allowed you to connect with other characters in the coming books! Can’t wait for book two!

[paola · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED this book!!!! omg 5/5 for the vibes. honestly there was nothing I didn’t like from both characters, other than some communication issues. but literally I’m obsessed and I need to buy the rest of the books. if you’re deciding if you should read this book I say YESS 100% yes!

[Rozebudzz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book in the series. Mikayla started out a little frustrating to me. She didn’t stand up for herself for most of the book and let her mom and the sorority walk all over her. Yes, she rebelled against their demands but never directly until the end. I loved their epilogue but wish it was further into their future.

Ethan was patient with her which made him so perfect. It wasn’t really obvious to me that he fell hard for her at first but I suppose that’s because he keeps his feelings close. He seemed like a pretty stand up kind of guy from the start. Their interactions were sweet. Most of their problem was just lack of communication. Everything fell into place for them once they started dealing with each other more honestly. I loved all the guys and can’t wait for their story. Looking forward to the next book!

[Gladys · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book and am super excited to read more of this series. While you don't need to, I suggest you grab the prequel, Hockey House V-Cards and give it a read. It, just like this book offers up much more than you might expect. As for this book well, it pulled me in quickly, had me deeply invested, and passionately rooting for Ethan and Mikayla. Big feels, tantalizing drama, rich angst, humor that runs the gamut from sweet to snarky, and a lush simmering heat make an irresistible mixture that is smooth as silk but still packs a potent punch.

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forbidden Freshman is an amazing read!! I love the characters and the banter between Mikayla and Ethan. Their story is one of my favorites, it will pull you in, make you laugh, cry, and swoon, did I mention the spice! Their chemistry is strong, I love Mikayla’s spunky and independent personality and Ethan’s cocky but protective manner. They really represent college struggles and finding HEA. I really enjoyed reading their story and can’t wait to read the next one.

I voluntarily leave an honest review of this Advanced Readers Copy.

[Kristin Scearce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic book from start to finish, the guys in Hockey House are hilarious, and I can't wait for more in this series. Awesome debut!

5 stars

[Tay · Rating 3 out of 5]

✨sports romance
✨hockey
✨forbidden love
✨college romance
✨miscommunication
✨bets & sorority initiations
✨found family

Mick was on my last nerve the entire book. The author tried to make her come across as this funny and “takes no crap from no one” type but it failed. I found her quite annoying and hypocritical.

And don’t get me started on her mom and Miss “thanK you aIMee (Taylor Swift Reference).” Why were all of the women in this story so annoying with no backbone? This part really bugged me because I love a strong FMC, and Mick was not it.

The women almost made me DNF this book, but the Hockey House crew saved it. Loved the personalities of the guys and how they looked out for Mick after bonding with her. However, they were giving very high school instead of college students. Ethan was a sweetheart to Mick from day one and honestly deserved better. 😂

The story was not horrible but definitely not a fav. Another story that I would say is a quick and easy read.

3/5⭐️
3/5🌶️

[Sophie Sinclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best hockey romance and found family book I have ever read.

I found my new favourite book series! This book was honestly unreal from start to finish. I honestly feel like I know these characters personally because of how much I love them!

The female main character Mikayla is sarcastic and is like one of the boys and her love interest Ethan is a hockey player for Nolan U where they both go to university. Ethan isn’t the type of boy to settle down as he wants to focus on his studies but meets Mikayla and instantly can’t stop thinking about her because of how different and special she is. There are a lot of bumps in the road and some miscommunications but it made for them but it makes the book even more exciting. I devoured this book, and would have read it in one sitting if things didn’t keep getting in the way.

Throughout the book, Mikayla forms the most special relationships with Ethan’s hockey team which is so wholesome to read about as well as how protective they are over Mikayla. Ethan is such a gentleman and treats Mikayla so well and with so much respect which she deserves as she goes through a lot throughout the book which Ethan is there for, every step of the way.

Extremely bold statement but this is my favourite romance read and my favourite book couple, I honestly love this found family and everything about each and every character. As soon as this is out I’m running to buy the physical copy and the next book and so on…. This book is out 6th February and I honestly couldn’t recommend a book enough.

[Rowena · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Forbidden Freshman 4⭐️

We all know I love a good hockey romance! Last year I fell in love book series like Off Campus and Briar U and wow! People were not lying when they said that the Nolan U Series can be compared to them!

To me, Nolan U with Mikayla, Ethan and the Hockey House guys is another college campus right by Briar U, and I loved it so much!

I absolutely fell in love with Ethan! I figured I would from seeing him in the ‘Hockey House V-Cards’ novella but wow! He was just everything! Definitely added to the hockey boyfriend list!

I also loved seeing little glimpses of side characters like Liam and Rachel who I’m so looking forward to seeing more of in ‘The Heart Stealer’ (which is out March 5th SQUEEEEEEE!)

[Lindsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

First book in the Nolan U Hockey series by Katy Archer.
This book took me longer to read than necessary. Life and things just got in the way.
I don’t know what it is about hockey players but they are popular lately and I highly recommend adding this to your TBR! Definitely an interesting premise/unique plot.
I loved the characters and the found family that Mikayla eventually finds. Ethan is a great guy with that protective nature going on plus he has the Hockey House behind him as well.
I felt the emotions of this book and definitely felt for Mikayla a time or two. I loved these two together though and I’m glad we will see more of them throughout the series.

[Monae Doyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was funny, sweet and spicy 🌶️ 🌶️🌶️.

This is the first book in the Nolan U. Hockey series. This story is about a young woman named Mikayla. She is in this sorority at the University. She has to go through this initiation of making a certain guy fall for her then break his heart. The guy’s name is Ethan who is on a Hockey 🏒 team at the University.

Ethan lost in a game of darts 🎯. He can’t have sex for a whole month. He ends up meeting Mikayla and he is taken by her sassiness and her humor. She isn’t like other girls who are into the Hockey players. He doesn’t tell her that he can’t have sex and she doesn’t tell him about her secret. He ends up finding out about her secret and she ends up staying with him at the Hockey House along with the other guys. The banter between Mikayla and Ethan was fun. They also had plenty of spicy moments together. I really enjoyed reading this book.

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

After having read the Prequel Hockey House V-Cards that kicked off Nolan U Hockey series, new to me and simultaneously newly debut author Katy Archer had me looking forward to reading her first official full length novel The Forbidden Archer from the series.
Through the narration of dual POVs, we follow the story of Ethan Galloway (previously introduced in Hockey House V-Cards Prequel) and Mikayla ‘Lil Mouse’ Evelyn Hyde in this Forced Proximity, Grumpy Sunshine, Hockey Romance.

The storyline delivered gave you a lot to follow along with, whether it was seeing and learning about Ethan and Mikayla’s characters not only from their personal inner monologue. But also through each other’s perspective over the progression of the story.
All whilst watching them slowly come into their own and growing from it, considering the situations they found themselves in leading to some obstacles and hurdles to overcome from the trials that were put through.
Ultimately leading to deep and emotionally charged moments, particularly in their individual lives. More so in Mikayla’s case from all that she faced, which not only garnered sympathy from me for her. But had me hating her sorority sisters as well as her mother, the rage Katy had me having towards them was unreal.

Katy also ensured the budding relationship between the two that went from Strangers to Friends to Lovers was showcased quite thoroughly. Being able to follow along at nearly every step through both their eyes, seeing as it was a main element to the storyline.
To watch their relationship slowly yet surely come together was entertaining and moving, given the emotions that came into play. It definitely led to a whirlwind ride courtesy of ups and downs that had both Ethan and Mikayla going back and forth with a lot of pushing and pulling.
And yet they made following along worthwhile IMO.

Even with deep, intense emotional moments, Katy still managed to bring the entertainment factor.
And that just so happened to be courtesy of the secondary characters who were the found family of boys from the infamous Hockey House.
They definitely brought amusement to the table from the laughter they caused during their pleasurable time together.
On top of giving us a sneak peek into their characters, not only seeing how they played into the overall story. But what to expect when it comes to future stories from some of them that are yet to come.

Unfortunately there was one issue for me, and that was the story did feel a little long winded at a point. Particularly the repetitiveness of Ethan and Mikayla’s actions whenever they came together *pun not intended* in their moments that seemed to play and end the same way.
The feeling of reading the same thing a few times just got to me with feeling like there was no movement.

At the end of the day, even with my one issue, that didn’t stop me from liking The Forbidden Freshman by Katy Archer. For being her first full length novel, she came through with Ethan and Mikayla’s story being a wonderful read having found it enjoyable and pleasurable.
And given the sneak peek at the end, safe to say author Katy Archer has me excited for Nolan U Hockey series next book The Heart Stealer, which just so happens to be Liam and Rachel’s story.


*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Alicia Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Katy Archer did an amazing job bringing these characters to life. I honestly couldn't put this book down. If you like Elle Kennedy, Becka Mack or Avery Keelan, then you are going to love this book! It is full of fun banter, family drama, sizzling chemistry and extreme spice.The guys in the Hockey House are hilarious and I love the how they step up for Mikayla. I can't wait to read Rachel and Liam's book next. 💕💕

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aww, I actually really enjoyed this! I usually hate the miscommunication trope, but this was done really well and avoided all the unnecessary drama that normally comes with it. Nothing felt forced, which was such a relief. Very realistic reactions.

I also loved that it didn’t end with the usual “they made up, the end.” There was still more story and actual plot happening alongside the romance, which made it way more satisfying.

Definitely recommend if you’re in the mood for a spicy romance that still has depth and keeps things interesting!

[Dottie Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a beautiful story. It's a must read.

[Alex Ciz_naughty · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 solid stars!!!

Not sure what happened to my lengthy review but this book was a really good new to me authors story. Katy Archer brought her characters to life and had you rooting for them.
Lots of spice, lots of heat. Not a slow burn but nothing done about it until around 70% mark?
All in all a fun read I inhaled in less than a days I only wished for more closure at the end. 🙂

[Ashlyn Welsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

wow I adored this book! It was 2 bets and man did they both fall so hard! The main characters were so silly in love and it was so precious to read! I loved the reformed playboy aspect and how he never dates then Mick came along and he was crushing hard! The whole no sex for a month was so silly and it was just too good!!! 2000% will reread!!!

[Cindy Lokken Kator · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book - great debut! I loved Mikayla's feisty personality and the relationship between her and Ethan. I loved the bond between the Hockey House guys as well. Looking forward to the next book in the series!!