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The Holiday Play
Not yet published
Expected 14 Feb 26It’s time for the annual Football Frat Christmas celebration… and this year, it lands on Valentine’s Day as well, but can these lovers steal a few moments for romance in a house packed full of chaos and some very strong-willed children?
No one said navigating parenthood and the world beyond college would be easy, and each of the Nolan U Football couples is experiencing this firsthand.
Zander is busy trying to figure out what’s up with his wife, Sienna, while also dealing with a very rude and sulky Zoey. Meanwhile, Sienna is reeling over an unwelcome advance from her personal trainer and trying to figure out how to let her protective husband know she was hit on.
As Wily laments the end of his football career, he’s trying to figure out what to do with his future, while Elizabeth quietly yearns to get out of the busy city and raise her five children in a small town. But how does she tell her husband that when he’s just been offered an amazing coaching opportunity?
Carson and Nylah are at odds over what to do with a large sum of money they’ve just inherited. Can she convince her stubborn husband that he’s more than capable of raising their family and turning his dream business into a reality?
Blake is struggling to cope with parenting her two little girls—one angel and one troublemaker—while Grady is desperately trying to bring a little order and discipline into their chaotic lives.
Meanwhile, Tyrell and Dani are stuck at an airport in Singapore, trying to get back in time for the Football Frat Christmas and wondering if their nomadic lifestyle is still worth pursuing with a fussy six-month old who just won’t settle.
This weekend reunion looks to be falling apart, but can they pull it together in the nick of time and still celebrate their love for each other?
Find out in this sweet and spicy epilogue novel, written for Katy's die-hard Football Frat fans with all her love ❤️
No one said navigating parenthood and the world beyond college would be easy, and each of the Nolan U Football couples is experiencing this firsthand.
Zander is busy trying to figure out what’s up with his wife, Sienna, while also dealing with a very rude and sulky Zoey. Meanwhile, Sienna is reeling over an unwelcome advance from her personal trainer and trying to figure out how to let her protective husband know she was hit on.
As Wily laments the end of his football career, he’s trying to figure out what to do with his future, while Elizabeth quietly yearns to get out of the busy city and raise her five children in a small town. But how does she tell her husband that when he’s just been offered an amazing coaching opportunity?
Carson and Nylah are at odds over what to do with a large sum of money they’ve just inherited. Can she convince her stubborn husband that he’s more than capable of raising their family and turning his dream business into a reality?
Blake is struggling to cope with parenting her two little girls—one angel and one troublemaker—while Grady is desperately trying to bring a little order and discipline into their chaotic lives.
Meanwhile, Tyrell and Dani are stuck at an airport in Singapore, trying to get back in time for the Football Frat Christmas and wondering if their nomadic lifestyle is still worth pursuing with a fussy six-month old who just won’t settle.
This weekend reunion looks to be falling apart, but can they pull it together in the nick of time and still celebrate their love for each other?
Find out in this sweet and spicy epilogue novel, written for Katy's die-hard Football Frat fans with all her love ❤️
ebook
Expected publication February 14, 2026
1 person is currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Katy Archer
35 books282 followersKaty 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!
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!
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
January 13, 2026
This is set 10 years after the end of The Perfect Play and showing all 5 couples and where they are now. Let me tell you this did not disappoint! I loved seeing all the guys be dads some to a whole tribe. Their dynamics and everything going on is still so close knit. She even gave Zoey some POVs which I thought was just perfect. I cannot wait to get to the next gen series she has coming next year!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
The Holiday Play
is the finale to
Nolan U Football
series by Katy Archer.
Book 6 takes place 10 years later and has us following each of the couples through multiple POVs.
Even though through the multiple journeys showcased, author Katy had us navigating within each couples current lives. She still made sure to fill in the gaps by allowing us to learn about what occurred for Zander and Sienna, Carson and Nylah, Wily and Satch, Grady and Blake and Tyrell and Dani’s after leaving Nolan U to go on their separate ways and how it led them to living their current lives.
And considering the story was told in multiple POVs, it allowed even more further insight with being able to hear and see it from both partners within the couples. And learn how it was for each of them to navigate their new lives.
Since the Nolan U Football series wouldn’t be what it was without the Found Family aspect. Author Katy made sure to show that it was very much alive and kicking, seeing as the story revolves around them all coming together.
It was definitely nice to see that their bond was still very much there and keeping strong with all the love, care and respect they still had for one another upon their latest reunion.
In those moments it led to entertainment from the laughter it brought forth with seeing the interactions between the adults and the kids, while giving off warm, sweet and cute feels, particularly when seeing the dynamics between all the different families and how they were there for one another and helping each other out. Especially in the time of need when a crisis arose.
Despite The Holiday Play being an enjoyable read, there were a couple of complaints for me.
One being regardless of Tyrell and Dani’s situation, it would’ve been nice to hear from them more since there wasn’t enough chapters from their perspective in comparison to the other couples.
Which brings me to my other complaint, where one of the POVs was from a second generation character, something I would’ve preferred less of since not only will they be getting a story in the next generation spin off series.
But seeing as this was more about the first generation, with being an end to their series, to me it took away from having more chapters from the main characters instead. Especially those who hardly had any POV chapters to begin with.
All in all, Author Katy Archer did a good job with The Holiday Play.
It made for an enjoyable read, giving holiday vibes with found family feels from seeing two generations come together and celebrate.
All the while giving updates into each of the couples lives and their family post Nolan U, which was nice to see and catch up on.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Book 6 takes place 10 years later and has us following each of the couples through multiple POVs.
Even though through the multiple journeys showcased, author Katy had us navigating within each couples current lives. She still made sure to fill in the gaps by allowing us to learn about what occurred for Zander and Sienna, Carson and Nylah, Wily and Satch, Grady and Blake and Tyrell and Dani’s after leaving Nolan U to go on their separate ways and how it led them to living their current lives.
And considering the story was told in multiple POVs, it allowed even more further insight with being able to hear and see it from both partners within the couples. And learn how it was for each of them to navigate their new lives.
Since the Nolan U Football series wouldn’t be what it was without the Found Family aspect. Author Katy made sure to show that it was very much alive and kicking, seeing as the story revolves around them all coming together.
It was definitely nice to see that their bond was still very much there and keeping strong with all the love, care and respect they still had for one another upon their latest reunion.
In those moments it led to entertainment from the laughter it brought forth with seeing the interactions between the adults and the kids, while giving off warm, sweet and cute feels, particularly when seeing the dynamics between all the different families and how they were there for one another and helping each other out. Especially in the time of need when a crisis arose.
Despite The Holiday Play being an enjoyable read, there were a couple of complaints for me.
One being regardless of Tyrell and Dani’s situation, it would’ve been nice to hear from them more since there wasn’t enough chapters from their perspective in comparison to the other couples.
Which brings me to my other complaint, where one of the POVs was from a second generation character, something I would’ve preferred less of since not only will they be getting a story in the next generation spin off series.
But seeing as this was more about the first generation, with being an end to their series, to me it took away from having more chapters from the main characters instead. Especially those who hardly had any POV chapters to begin with.
All in all, Author Katy Archer did a good job with The Holiday Play.
It made for an enjoyable read, giving holiday vibes with found family feels from seeing two generations come together and celebrate.
All the while giving updates into each of the couples lives and their family post Nolan U, which was nice to see and catch up on.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book and am doing an honest review in return. I love how this wasn't all sunshine and rainbows like most epilogue novels are. Zander is still playing football and being the overprotective dad towards Zoey. He and Zoey get into a fight when he catches her kissing a guy, and she ends up saying some not-so-nice things to Sienna, which gets her grounded for the weekend. Sienna is dealing with her personal trainer kissing her against her will and is unsure of how to tell Zander.
Wiley is officially no longer playing football due to recurring knee injuries, and he decides he wants to be a stay-at-home dad to their five kids and have Satch finally put her degree to use.
Carson is still dealing with his insecurities and self-doubt. His father has passed away and left him with a large sum of money with the clause that he has to spend it on something he enjoys. Nylah tries to convince him to open his own garage, but he doesn't believe that he could actually do it.
Blake and Grady are struggling to agree on their parenting styles. Blake doesn't want their girls to have a childhood like hers and has a hard time telling them no. When her youngest and one of Carson and Nylah's twins goes missing, she realizes that sometimes she has to put her foot down. Down.
Tyrell and Dani are stuck at an airport across the world, trying to get back on time. They realize that they don't have to travel as much, and they even get engaged on the plane. They eventually make it with one night to spare.
Wiley is officially no longer playing football due to recurring knee injuries, and he decides he wants to be a stay-at-home dad to their five kids and have Satch finally put her degree to use.
Carson is still dealing with his insecurities and self-doubt. His father has passed away and left him with a large sum of money with the clause that he has to spend it on something he enjoys. Nylah tries to convince him to open his own garage, but he doesn't believe that he could actually do it.
Blake and Grady are struggling to agree on their parenting styles. Blake doesn't want their girls to have a childhood like hers and has a hard time telling them no. When her youngest and one of Carson and Nylah's twins goes missing, she realizes that sometimes she has to put her foot down. Down.
Tyrell and Dani are stuck at an airport across the world, trying to get back on time. They realize that they don't have to travel as much, and they even get engaged on the plane. They eventually make it with one night to spare.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I couldn’t love this more! Getting a glimpse into the future lives of the Nolan U characters was so much fun!
Told in alternating POVs, we’re gifted an intimate look at what everyone has been up to for the past ten years. Some of it is amazing and some is just, well, life. I love that the author added in a few new issues for the couples to face and overcome. It’s a great way to show that even though two people may be perfect for each other, it doesn’t mean everything is sunshine and roses all the time. It’s a nice dose of reality in this fictional world, and since the characters are so well written, I daresay every reader will defend their “real” status. Does it mean the romance and the “Calgon take me away” feeling a good book brings are lost? Nope. IMO, it cements it because nothing’s more satisfying than when love stands the test of time and conquers all.
Catching up with the Football Frat gang was like getting warm hugs from old friends. The fun dynamic between the characters is as strong as ever, as is the mutual friendship, respect, and love.
The Holiday Play was the perfect way to check in and bask in all the warm, fuzzy feelings the series instilled. How fun would it be if the author let us check in on the characters again, even further into the future? That’s a very (not) subtle hint. Though rumor is, we may be getting just that with some next gen fun. Can’t wait!
Told in alternating POVs, we’re gifted an intimate look at what everyone has been up to for the past ten years. Some of it is amazing and some is just, well, life. I love that the author added in a few new issues for the couples to face and overcome. It’s a great way to show that even though two people may be perfect for each other, it doesn’t mean everything is sunshine and roses all the time. It’s a nice dose of reality in this fictional world, and since the characters are so well written, I daresay every reader will defend their “real” status. Does it mean the romance and the “Calgon take me away” feeling a good book brings are lost? Nope. IMO, it cements it because nothing’s more satisfying than when love stands the test of time and conquers all.
Catching up with the Football Frat gang was like getting warm hugs from old friends. The fun dynamic between the characters is as strong as ever, as is the mutual friendship, respect, and love.
The Holiday Play was the perfect way to check in and bask in all the warm, fuzzy feelings the series instilled. How fun would it be if the author let us check in on the characters again, even further into the future? That’s a very (not) subtle hint. Though rumor is, we may be getting just that with some next gen fun. Can’t wait!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It has been about ten years since they graduated from Nolan U but the boys, now men, of the football frat and their wives/girlfriends have kept their friendships strong throughout all the ups and downs life has thrown at them. With two of the men playing professional football, they started the tradition of an annual Christmas get together, which is impossible to have on Christmas because Wily and Zander usually have games during the holiday season. This year the only date they can all manage just happens to fall on Valentin’s Day.
I loved this book and as always, the characters are beautifully written, compelling, and incredibly realistic. A particularly enjoyed the kids and the way that the reality of traveling with so many kids in tow is such a daunting undertaking. Some interesting twists in this story kept me engaged in this book from the first page to the last. I highly recommend this book to other readers with the caveat that it is absolutely necessary to read the first five books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.
I loved this book and as always, the characters are beautifully written, compelling, and incredibly realistic. A particularly enjoyed the kids and the way that the reality of traveling with so many kids in tow is such a daunting undertaking. Some interesting twists in this story kept me engaged in this book from the first page to the last. I highly recommend this book to other readers with the caveat that it is absolutely necessary to read the first five books in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a beautiful ending to the football series. We got to catch up with all the characters lives ten years later to see where they all were. Even miles apart they are still such a strong family who when they get together it’s like no time has passed at all. Life isn’t always beautiful, but the people you share it with can make it all worth it. I loved seeing that even years later they still had ups and downs but were never short on love.
All of the football family comes together for a valentines/christmas celebration. There’s lessons learned, there’s character growth, and there is fun shenanigans. Everything I could ask for to close this chapter and move on to the baseball house.
I love seeing Zoey as a teenager, all angsty and brooding. It’s such a fun contrast to her younger years. She is my favorite of the kids and I can’t wait to see what is next for her.
All of the football family comes together for a valentines/christmas celebration. There’s lessons learned, there’s character growth, and there is fun shenanigans. Everything I could ask for to close this chapter and move on to the baseball house.
I love seeing Zoey as a teenager, all angsty and brooding. It’s such a fun contrast to her younger years. She is my favorite of the kids and I can’t wait to see what is next for her.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The gang from the Football Frat have all grown up!
Ten years after leaving Nolan U, the group finds themselves navigating parenthood, life changes, career moves, and self development. Despite what may be happening in their lives, the group make it a priority to come together annually to keep their found family close.
I love the dynamic each couple continues to have, and how much they have grown together. Add their children to the mix, and it is a great story! I can’t wait to see what the next generation brings!
Ten years after leaving Nolan U, the group finds themselves navigating parenthood, life changes, career moves, and self development. Despite what may be happening in their lives, the group make it a priority to come together annually to keep their found family close.
I love the dynamic each couple continues to have, and how much they have grown together. Add their children to the mix, and it is a great story! I can’t wait to see what the next generation brings!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The football house family reunion was so good. This takes place in the future when most of them are married with kids and it brings a lot of chaos, laughters, memories, love, and a tight-knit family that will always be there for one another when one is in trouble. I love the fact that Zoe is now 14 years old and navigating through her teenage life. This book focuses on how each couple have their own struggles with career-changes, self-identity, dealing with kids' behavioral issues, and navigating through parenthood. It is not easy but with the love and support from their friends; they can overcome anything.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such a beautiful way to close out this series! Seeing everyone together with their kids, celebrating the holidays as a huge found family while making further plans for the future, is so amazing. <3
5 stars
5 stars
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews