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Hockey Boys of Loft 3B #3
Rebel Season: Hockey Boys of Loft 3B
He wants to prove he’s more than a pretty face with a trust fund…NHL rookie Archibald Fisher is wealthy, handsome, and appears to live a charmed life without a care in the world.
But behind closed doors, Fisher’s pretentious family treats him like a liability. A problem to fix rather than a person. And when his granddad passes away, he’s given an Get married, or say goodbye to every penny of his inheritance. His family thinks it’s a foolproof plan to control their rebellious youngest son...but they clearly don’t know him very well.… She’s fighting to save everything she loves...
Lila Chen practically grew up in San Francisco’s historic firehouse turned art collective. Her fellow artists are like family to her, especially since her mom passed away.
So when she discovers the firehouse is going to be destroyed by Fisher Group, Lila is desperate to save the only home she has left. But after multiple dead-end attempts, she’s running out of hope.
Until Archibald Fisher shows up with a proposal she can’t refuse…Their marriage was meant to be on paper only, until real feelings creep in. But new love is fragile, and between Lila’s secrets and threats from the Fisher family, there might be no way to stop it from shattering…This is a new adult hockey romance with moderate language, frequent innuendo, and references to sex. Though the romance fades to black, there are themes of grief and emotional/verbal abuse. If you are sensitive to these subjects, please use this content warning to make an informed decision before listening to this book.
But behind closed doors, Fisher’s pretentious family treats him like a liability. A problem to fix rather than a person. And when his granddad passes away, he’s given an Get married, or say goodbye to every penny of his inheritance. His family thinks it’s a foolproof plan to control their rebellious youngest son...but they clearly don’t know him very well.… She’s fighting to save everything she loves...
Lila Chen practically grew up in San Francisco’s historic firehouse turned art collective. Her fellow artists are like family to her, especially since her mom passed away.
So when she discovers the firehouse is going to be destroyed by Fisher Group, Lila is desperate to save the only home she has left. But after multiple dead-end attempts, she’s running out of hope.
Until Archibald Fisher shows up with a proposal she can’t refuse…Their marriage was meant to be on paper only, until real feelings creep in. But new love is fragile, and between Lila’s secrets and threats from the Fisher family, there might be no way to stop it from shattering…This is a new adult hockey romance with moderate language, frequent innuendo, and references to sex. Though the romance fades to black, there are themes of grief and emotional/verbal abuse. If you are sensitive to these subjects, please use this content warning to make an informed decision before listening to this book.
Audible Audio
Published August 21, 2026
About the author
Katie Bailey
13 books2,940 followersKatie Bailey is an Amazon top 25 bestselling author of rom coms with relatable characters and tons of chemistry. Her aim with every new love story she writes is to give readers a good laugh, maybe even a bit of a cry, but definitely leave them with a new book boyfriend.
When she’s not busy writing, Katie spends her time chasing twin tornado littles, cursing the cold Canadian winters she endures each year, chugging coffee by the bucketload, and crushing on her husband, who’s the real life inspiration behind all of the fictional men she’s written.
You can connect with Katie on Instagram @authorkatiebailey
When she’s not busy writing, Katie spends her time chasing twin tornado littles, cursing the cold Canadian winters she endures each year, chugging coffee by the bucketload, and crushing on her husband, who’s the real life inspiration behind all of the fictional men she’s written.
You can connect with Katie on Instagram @authorkatiebailey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 395 reviews
September 15, 2026
By far the best in the series!
August 25, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Book 3 in the Hockey Boys of Loft 3B series
- New adult fade to black romcom
- Hockey player MMC
- Artist FMC
- Psycho family with crazy rules
- Life after loss and learning to feel again
- The✨best✨found family
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- the nickname
- THE BROMANCE
- The banter & jokes between Fisher & Lila
- The found family. The deep bond of the boys and the girls’ instant connection and camaraderie
- The girls teaching Lila the hotness of hockey
- Fisher’s commitment to Lila, and thoughtfulness
- The boy aquarium 😂😂
- Lila’s surprise painting
- Lila’s a badass who isn’t afraid to stand up to in laws
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The best way to describe this book is the warmest hug, filled with a plethora of hilarious dirty jokes 😂 Honestly, I’d expect nothing else for Fishy’s book. I laughed so hard at the antics of the Hockey boys and the quick one liners Fisher and Lila threw at each other. The characters say some off the wall stuff in this book that got me cry laughing.
I also really appreciated the depth of emotions from the characters as she figured out grief and he figured out how to survive his toxic, insane family. Their chemistry and bond form quickly, but it’s so sweet reading them opening up to each other. I think there was room for the authors to give the MCs a more whole person depiction, like the characters’ pasts and more depth with struggles, but understand they didn’t cause it’s a romcom.
The found family aspect in this whole series is honestly some of the best friendships that are better than family I’ve ever read. I’m so sad the series is over because all the boys and now the girls are so entertaining and sweet. Their epilogue is so sweet and satisfying; I just finished the book with a huge smile on my face.
This is a new adult romcom with adult language, heavy inneduo, adult jokes, and a fade to black scene. The authors have a content warning in the beginning of the book.
**Thank you so much to Katie, Leah, and Booked with the Emily’s for letting me read this ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
- Book 3 in the Hockey Boys of Loft 3B series
- New adult fade to black romcom
- Hockey player MMC
- Artist FMC
- Psycho family with crazy rules
- Life after loss and learning to feel again
- The✨best✨found family
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- the nickname
- THE BROMANCE
- The banter & jokes between Fisher & Lila
- The found family. The deep bond of the boys and the girls’ instant connection and camaraderie
- The girls teaching Lila the hotness of hockey
- Fisher’s commitment to Lila, and thoughtfulness
- The boy aquarium 😂😂
- Lila’s surprise painting
- Lila’s a badass who isn’t afraid to stand up to in laws
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The best way to describe this book is the warmest hug, filled with a plethora of hilarious dirty jokes 😂 Honestly, I’d expect nothing else for Fishy’s book. I laughed so hard at the antics of the Hockey boys and the quick one liners Fisher and Lila threw at each other. The characters say some off the wall stuff in this book that got me cry laughing.
I also really appreciated the depth of emotions from the characters as she figured out grief and he figured out how to survive his toxic, insane family. Their chemistry and bond form quickly, but it’s so sweet reading them opening up to each other. I think there was room for the authors to give the MCs a more whole person depiction, like the characters’ pasts and more depth with struggles, but understand they didn’t cause it’s a romcom.
The found family aspect in this whole series is honestly some of the best friendships that are better than family I’ve ever read. I’m so sad the series is over because all the boys and now the girls are so entertaining and sweet. Their epilogue is so sweet and satisfying; I just finished the book with a huge smile on my face.
This is a new adult romcom with adult language, heavy inneduo, adult jokes, and a fade to black scene. The authors have a content warning in the beginning of the book.
**Thank you so much to Katie, Leah, and Booked with the Emily’s for letting me read this ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
August 24, 2026
4⭐️ | 0🌶️ (closed door)
once again, this was so cute! i love a good marriage of convenience 🙂↕️
i adored fisher in the first two books, so i was eager to dive into his story next and it did not disappoint.
he and lila had such good chemistry, and i loved their banter and the way they challenged each other. coming from a wealthy family, there’s not much fisher has ever had to go without. however, the way his family treats him is completely abhorrent, seeing him as nothing more than a disappointment for failing to fit their mould. underneath his confident facade, all he really wants is to be loved and accepted for who he is. as they begin to trust each other more and lower their guards, lila shows fisher what it means to be rich in other aspects of life, while fisher helps lila find a place where she feels truly at home.
the found-family aspect really shone in this book, and i’m so happy they were both able to find the people they deserve with the 3B gang and art collective. i especially loved seeing how quickly lila was welcomed into the group and how everyone had each other’s backs throughout the story.
overall, this was heartwarming, funny, and such an easy read. i’m sad the series is over, and i’m going to miss these characters so much 🥹
thank you victory and netgalley for the e-arc! 🫶🏼
once again, this was so cute! i love a good marriage of convenience 🙂↕️
i adored fisher in the first two books, so i was eager to dive into his story next and it did not disappoint.
he and lila had such good chemistry, and i loved their banter and the way they challenged each other. coming from a wealthy family, there’s not much fisher has ever had to go without. however, the way his family treats him is completely abhorrent, seeing him as nothing more than a disappointment for failing to fit their mould. underneath his confident facade, all he really wants is to be loved and accepted for who he is. as they begin to trust each other more and lower their guards, lila shows fisher what it means to be rich in other aspects of life, while fisher helps lila find a place where she feels truly at home.
the found-family aspect really shone in this book, and i’m so happy they were both able to find the people they deserve with the 3B gang and art collective. i especially loved seeing how quickly lila was welcomed into the group and how everyone had each other’s backs throughout the story.
overall, this was heartwarming, funny, and such an easy read. i’m sad the series is over, and i’m going to miss these characters so much 🥹
thank you victory and netgalley for the e-arc! 🫶🏼
August 5, 2026
Fisher’s parents are up to their usual billionaire business—buying cheap properties to tear them down and construct something that can make them money. Now that they’re making their way over to his West Coast, it hits even harder that they think he’s a dumb hockey player and are on his tail even more to suit up (business suit, not hockey) to help the family image. Lila Chen’s been grieving her mother for the past year, but finds so much comfort in their beloved firehouse turned beloved art collective. When Fisher learns the—should be—historic building is being sold, he convinces Lila he has the perfect plan to protect her art studio and get back at his family.
“I think my soul fell in love with you before we even met.”
As with any boy aquarium (aka hockey rink), I could peek on these boys’ lives forever. This series continues to have the best joy and endearment that every episode of New Girl brings. Add in a marriage of convenience, emotional growth, and the best romantic tension, and I’m high-flying through this. I’m generally not a trust-fund-baby plot lover, but him having the money to buy her art and giving up luxuries to be able to buy the fire station for her really warmed my heart.
This whole series is for anyone who loves new adult sports romance with all the biting banter and chemistry without explicit language.
Huge thanks to the authors and @bookedwiththeemilys for the eARC!
Perfect for you if you like:
Found family/ New Girl
Marriage of convenience
Awful family members
Similar:
Could’ve Fooled Me by Jenny Proctor
Spiral by Bal Khabra (open door)
Season’s Schemings by Katie Bailey
🌶️fade to black romance (married couple)
⚠️mild language, previous death of a parent, grief, narcissistic parents
“I think my soul fell in love with you before we even met.”
As with any boy aquarium (aka hockey rink), I could peek on these boys’ lives forever. This series continues to have the best joy and endearment that every episode of New Girl brings. Add in a marriage of convenience, emotional growth, and the best romantic tension, and I’m high-flying through this. I’m generally not a trust-fund-baby plot lover, but him having the money to buy her art and giving up luxuries to be able to buy the fire station for her really warmed my heart.
This whole series is for anyone who loves new adult sports romance with all the biting banter and chemistry without explicit language.
Huge thanks to the authors and @bookedwiththeemilys for the eARC!
Perfect for you if you like:
Found family/ New Girl
Marriage of convenience
Awful family members
Similar:
Could’ve Fooled Me by Jenny Proctor
Spiral by Bal Khabra (open door)
Season’s Schemings by Katie Bailey
🌶️fade to black romance (married couple)
⚠️mild language, previous death of a parent, grief, narcissistic parents
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Booked with the Emily's, Leah Brunner and Katie Bailey for the ARC.
This is everything I wanted for Fishers story. It had healing, acceptance and the best found family! I just love my 3B hockey boys.
This book was marriage of convenience perfection. Lila and Fisher met by pure chance, a need driving them together. With them starting out as complete strangers, the slow build to friendship developed so well. Their moments together had me squealing and giggling, they were just so perfect for each other.
With the outside pressure they faced, they learned to navigate it together with a refreshing amount of communication. They obviously had moments were they had to learn what the other person needed and how they can support them. But overall, they are very well matched in temperament and attitude. I cant say enough about how much I love them!
This book had me laughing and enjoyed my time with the 3B gang. With all the couple together, it was very bittersweet, yet so satisfying. A perfect end to an era.
🔥 Heat level: Kisses, fade-to-black scene
🫢 Language: mild language, no F-words
This is everything I wanted for Fishers story. It had healing, acceptance and the best found family! I just love my 3B hockey boys.
This book was marriage of convenience perfection. Lila and Fisher met by pure chance, a need driving them together. With them starting out as complete strangers, the slow build to friendship developed so well. Their moments together had me squealing and giggling, they were just so perfect for each other.
With the outside pressure they faced, they learned to navigate it together with a refreshing amount of communication. They obviously had moments were they had to learn what the other person needed and how they can support them. But overall, they are very well matched in temperament and attitude. I cant say enough about how much I love them!
This book had me laughing and enjoyed my time with the 3B gang. With all the couple together, it was very bittersweet, yet so satisfying. A perfect end to an era.
🔥 Heat level: Kisses, fade-to-black scene
🫢 Language: mild language, no F-words
September 7, 2026
I’m so glad we finally got Fisher’s love story!! The marriage of convenience trope hits EVERY TIME👏🏻 I love it so much!! I thought the dynamic between Lila and Fisher was so fun with lots of banter and sarcasm, which I love! I also felt like their personalities blended and balanced really well!
The found family of Loft 3B is my favorite part of this series; I’m sad to see them go 🥹💜 This was a perfect ending to this trilogy!
⚠️: innuendo and language throughout, I would not recommend to readers who are sensitive to that. There is a fade to black scene (within marriage) with mild lead up, but completely closed door.
The found family of Loft 3B is my favorite part of this series; I’m sad to see them go 🥹💜 This was a perfect ending to this trilogy!
⚠️: innuendo and language throughout, I would not recommend to readers who are sensitive to that. There is a fade to black scene (within marriage) with mild lead up, but completely closed door.
August 27, 2026
Fisher & Lila were the PERFECT conclusion to the Hockey Boys of Loft 3B... I'm sad that these friends have all found their HEA, but I am so glad we got to go along with their journey.
Thanks to MLA for the audiobook (finished copy), and Katie and Leah for having me BETA read! These are my honest thoughts.
Fisher, in the first two books of this series, was unserious and full of fun. He came from a wealthy family and he enjoyed the life of the party. But the Fisher we meet at the beginning of his book is... struggling. His identity is wrapped up with his family, but he doesn't belong. He's the most himself with his friends, and when his family tries to force him to conform to their wishes, he just knows it's not the right choice for him. And once he meets Lila, whose life is about to be turned upside-down by Fisher's family's company, The Fisher Group, he's confident in his decision.
Lila's finally doing art full time. She recently lost her mom, and then her home, and her art is her heart. She works at the firehouse collective, and when The Fisher Group threatens to take that away, Lila wants to fight to keep it. And then, she meets Fisher.
These two end up in a marriage of convenience with a budding friendship. The more they learn about each other, the more they like. And when Lila has to move into the loft to make their marriage seem legit, it's like the final puzzle piece has slotted into place.
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- Marriage of convenience
- Hockey romance
- Fade to black
- There's only one bed
- Secret identity
- Found family
- San Francisco
- HE FALLS FIRST
- Quirky banter
- They stand up for each other
- FRIENDSHIP of the best variety!
THE AUDIOBOOK: CONNOR CRAIS WAS THE BEST NARRATOR FOR FISHER. I loved his performance SO MUCH. Cindy Kay was also amazing as Lila. These two characters have such amazing chemistry, and the chemistry between Crais + Kay brought that to life. It was SO easy to listen to this one!!
Thanks to MLA for the audiobook (finished copy), and Katie and Leah for having me BETA read! These are my honest thoughts.
Fisher, in the first two books of this series, was unserious and full of fun. He came from a wealthy family and he enjoyed the life of the party. But the Fisher we meet at the beginning of his book is... struggling. His identity is wrapped up with his family, but he doesn't belong. He's the most himself with his friends, and when his family tries to force him to conform to their wishes, he just knows it's not the right choice for him. And once he meets Lila, whose life is about to be turned upside-down by Fisher's family's company, The Fisher Group, he's confident in his decision.
Lila's finally doing art full time. She recently lost her mom, and then her home, and her art is her heart. She works at the firehouse collective, and when The Fisher Group threatens to take that away, Lila wants to fight to keep it. And then, she meets Fisher.
These two end up in a marriage of convenience with a budding friendship. The more they learn about each other, the more they like. And when Lila has to move into the loft to make their marriage seem legit, it's like the final puzzle piece has slotted into place.
READ IF YOU LOVE:
- Marriage of convenience
- Hockey romance
- Fade to black
- There's only one bed
- Secret identity
- Found family
- San Francisco
- HE FALLS FIRST
- Quirky banter
- They stand up for each other
- FRIENDSHIP of the best variety!
THE AUDIOBOOK: CONNOR CRAIS WAS THE BEST NARRATOR FOR FISHER. I loved his performance SO MUCH. Cindy Kay was also amazing as Lila. These two characters have such amazing chemistry, and the chemistry between Crais + Kay brought that to life. It was SO easy to listen to this one!!
August 29, 2026
Book Title: Rebel Season (Hockey Boys of Loft 3B Book 3)
Authors: Katie Bailey & Leah Brunner
Publisher: LBP LLC & Eleventh Avenue Publishing Inc.
Pub Date: August 25, 2026 (paperback) + August 27, 2026 (audiobook & eBook)
Dates Listened: August 28, 2026 – August 29, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔(𝚒𝚜𝚑) 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: I’m so happy I found the writing team of Katie Bailey and Leah Brunner as well as the boys of 3B! I get the feeling this is the last book of the series, and I’m already sad about it even though I haven’t read the first two books yet. I loved this emotional, hilarious story with my whole heart, as well as the chemistry between Archibald (AKA Fisher) and Lila. They were both such endearing characters, and I especially loved that there wasn’t any sort of third-act breakup with them.
The found family in this book is some of the best I’ve ever seen, and that is for both Fisher and Lila. It made me so happy and was just a really feel-good part of the story. Fisher’s family is atrocious, and I loved how Lila handled them. One scene in particular almost made me cry because I was laughing so hard, and this is THE perfect non-spicy read with plenty of innuendo. 👀😏 I didn’t feel like two authors were writing this book, and it flowed seamlessly. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a closed-door romance with LOL humor!
🎧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬: The way Connor Crais & Cindy Kay brought these characters to life was pure perfection, and I adored the various voices Kay was able to do for the secondary characters. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, but between the storyline and the audiobook narrators, I was hooked. I would fully recommend making this an ear read if you can, because I will never get over that narration.
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🚫
I received an advanced listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Authors: Katie Bailey & Leah Brunner
Publisher: LBP LLC & Eleventh Avenue Publishing Inc.
Pub Date: August 25, 2026 (paperback) + August 27, 2026 (audiobook & eBook)
Dates Listened: August 28, 2026 – August 29, 2026
🗣️ 𝚀𝚞𝚒𝚌𝚔(𝚒𝚜𝚑) 𝚃𝚊𝚔𝚎: I’m so happy I found the writing team of Katie Bailey and Leah Brunner as well as the boys of 3B! I get the feeling this is the last book of the series, and I’m already sad about it even though I haven’t read the first two books yet. I loved this emotional, hilarious story with my whole heart, as well as the chemistry between Archibald (AKA Fisher) and Lila. They were both such endearing characters, and I especially loved that there wasn’t any sort of third-act breakup with them.
The found family in this book is some of the best I’ve ever seen, and that is for both Fisher and Lila. It made me so happy and was just a really feel-good part of the story. Fisher’s family is atrocious, and I loved how Lila handled them. One scene in particular almost made me cry because I was laughing so hard, and this is THE perfect non-spicy read with plenty of innuendo. 👀😏 I didn’t feel like two authors were writing this book, and it flowed seamlessly. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a closed-door romance with LOL humor!
🎧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘰𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬: The way Connor Crais & Cindy Kay brought these characters to life was pure perfection, and I adored the various voices Kay was able to do for the secondary characters. At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, but between the storyline and the audiobook narrators, I was hooked. I would fully recommend making this an ear read if you can, because I will never get over that narration.
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙰𝚞𝚍𝚒𝚘𝚋𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝙼𝚢 𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: 🚫
I received an advanced listening copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 8, 2026
NHL rookie Fisher finally gets his story. In an effort to save a historic art building, he goes all in on a fake relationship / marriage of convenience with Lila, a local artist. And kaboom, this story slammed an exclamation mark on a beloved series with all the heart and gusto I fully anticipated.
I’ve been dying to get my hands on Fishy’s story and it didn’t disappoint. The found family vibe found within the walls of Apartment 3B is everything and the way this group embraces Lila is heartwarming. The messages and lessons found within these pages are everything, and I couldn’t get enough of the support this group gives to one another. A masterpiece is created through each installment of the series, painting beautiful connections and solid characters who are easy to adore and cheer for.
I love everything about the scrappy, fiery, fierce, and sweet Lila, and the way the chemistry explodes between her and the heart-stoppingly swoon-worthy Fisher–it completely melted my heart.
A romcom with allllll the feels–this book is everything I could have hoped for and more and I am obsessed with it!
**There is some innuendo and some language, but the spice stays behind closed doors.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
I’ve been dying to get my hands on Fishy’s story and it didn’t disappoint. The found family vibe found within the walls of Apartment 3B is everything and the way this group embraces Lila is heartwarming. The messages and lessons found within these pages are everything, and I couldn’t get enough of the support this group gives to one another. A masterpiece is created through each installment of the series, painting beautiful connections and solid characters who are easy to adore and cheer for.
I love everything about the scrappy, fiery, fierce, and sweet Lila, and the way the chemistry explodes between her and the heart-stoppingly swoon-worthy Fisher–it completely melted my heart.
A romcom with allllll the feels–this book is everything I could have hoped for and more and I am obsessed with it!
**There is some innuendo and some language, but the spice stays behind closed doors.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
September 10, 2026
Rebel Season @authorkatiebailey + @leah.brunner.writes
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ Fade to black btwn a married couple
Moderate swearing (replacement F word)
The final book in the boys of Loft 3B and it feels like the end of an era
∞ I adored this entire series and I honestly don't think I
could pick a favorite book.
One of the highlights for me was watching the characters in each story really grow in to themselves, shake off toxic relationships and unrealistic expectations of others, and truly find their place with people who love and appreciate them exactly as they are.
This was such an epic marriage of convenience read because
Fishy and Lila were total strangers when it all began.
This is definitely a series I will reread!
Marriage of convenience | no spice hockey romance | closed door romance books | found family | he falls first
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ Fade to black btwn a married couple
Moderate swearing (replacement F word)
The final book in the boys of Loft 3B and it feels like the end of an era
∞ I adored this entire series and I honestly don't think I
could pick a favorite book.
One of the highlights for me was watching the characters in each story really grow in to themselves, shake off toxic relationships and unrealistic expectations of others, and truly find their place with people who love and appreciate them exactly as they are.
This was such an epic marriage of convenience read because
Fishy and Lila were total strangers when it all began.
This is definitely a series I will reread!
Marriage of convenience | no spice hockey romance | closed door romance books | found family | he falls first
August 31, 2026
esto sí es un slowburn (en términos de que pasen cosas, no en cuanto a que desarrollen sentimientos y atracción).
objetivamente es un libro en el que todo va muy rápido y, nunca pensé que diría esto, pero me han faltado páginas de desarrollo, peeeeeero es que es una trilogía tan refrescante que lo he disfrutado muchísimo, la verdad. Se lee rápido, me ha dado todo lo que necesitaba y me ha parecido muy cuqui, así que aunque objetivamente sería menos estrellas, le voy a dar el 4.
objetivamente es un libro en el que todo va muy rápido y, nunca pensé que diría esto, pero me han faltado páginas de desarrollo, peeeeeero es que es una trilogía tan refrescante que lo he disfrutado muchísimo, la verdad. Se lee rápido, me ha dado todo lo que necesitaba y me ha parecido muy cuqui, así que aunque objetivamente sería menos estrellas, le voy a dar el 4.
October 5, 2026
I'm in denial because what do you mean it's over? you mean to tell me there's no more 3B? excuse me whilst I go mourn.
September 3, 2026
Thank you to the authors @leah.brunner.writes and @authorkatiebailey, and @bookedwiththeemilys for my gifted ebook and @mustloveaudio for my gifted audiobook.
Rebel Season is a 5-star read from me!
Rebel Season is the final book of the Hockey Boys of Loft
3B series. I love all these characters so much. Lila and Fisher's story was everything I wished for and more. Their chemistry was so authentic. I highly recommend reading this series. You will not be disappointed.
Now I want to start the series all over again!
The audiobook was so well done, because Cindy Kay and Connor Crais never disappoint! Thank you for voicing these characters so perfectly.
Rebel Season is a 5-star read from me!
Rebel Season is the final book of the Hockey Boys of Loft
3B series. I love all these characters so much. Lila and Fisher's story was everything I wished for and more. Their chemistry was so authentic. I highly recommend reading this series. You will not be disappointed.
Now I want to start the series all over again!
The audiobook was so well done, because Cindy Kay and Connor Crais never disappoint! Thank you for voicing these characters so perfectly.
October 6, 2026
Waiting for book 4
August 30, 2026
3.5 stars
Plot- Fun, but I had to take off a star for the far fetched premise. It was too wonky for me to go along with. This marriage of convenience trope was based off a very flimsy reason and the stakes (felony charges) were very high. Basically, it was completely unbelievable.
Characters- I liked the FMC a lot.
I liked the MMC too, except when I consider what a player he was right up until the moment he meets the FMC. Like, sleeping with a different woman what seems to be every weekend, no strings attached, casual sex. Being surrounded by gorgeous women who fawn all over him, and taking what he wants, when he wants. It’s just gross. He seems totally committed to the FMC now, but can a lifestyle/habit like that be totally changed in one fell swoop? Over an extremely short period of time? That one special woman can cure him, can be it for him suddenly? How long will that last?
For the sake of this book, let’s just say YES, YES THIS CAN HAPPEN, and his suddenly monogamous desires will most definitely last FOREVER. ;)
But this is why stories about promiscuous men are hard for me to enjoy sometimes.
Still, the authors pulled that aspect off okay in this book and I was convinced he was a changed man… until I thought about it harder. ;)
(The only way it would have worked well versus just “okay” was to have him truly regret and disavow that selfish lifestyle and make personal changes before the romance began.)
Romance- Great chemistry.
Writing- Great!
Content-
Language- maybe a handful of infrequent swears. No f-words.
Spice- Plenty of convos/remarks referring to sex but had limited crude language. The actual sex scene had the curtain close at the perfect moment. I’d consider it steamy clean.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- no
Cover- I LOVE IT!
POV- 1st person, dual POV
Cliffhanger- No
Format- Audible purchase
Narration- great dual performance!
How I rated the series -
1 - Rookie Season - 5 stars
2 - Rival Season - 3.5 stars (rounded down)
3 - Rebel Season- 3.5 stars (rounded up)
Plot- Fun, but I had to take off a star for the far fetched premise. It was too wonky for me to go along with. This marriage of convenience trope was based off a very flimsy reason and the stakes (felony charges) were very high. Basically, it was completely unbelievable.
Characters- I liked the FMC a lot.
I liked the MMC too, except when I consider what a player he was right up until the moment he meets the FMC. Like, sleeping with a different woman what seems to be every weekend, no strings attached, casual sex. Being surrounded by gorgeous women who fawn all over him, and taking what he wants, when he wants. It’s just gross. He seems totally committed to the FMC now, but can a lifestyle/habit like that be totally changed in one fell swoop? Over an extremely short period of time? That one special woman can cure him, can be it for him suddenly? How long will that last?
For the sake of this book, let’s just say YES, YES THIS CAN HAPPEN, and his suddenly monogamous desires will most definitely last FOREVER. ;)
But this is why stories about promiscuous men are hard for me to enjoy sometimes.
Still, the authors pulled that aspect off okay in this book and I was convinced he was a changed man… until I thought about it harder. ;)
(The only way it would have worked well versus just “okay” was to have him truly regret and disavow that selfish lifestyle and make personal changes before the romance began.)
Romance- Great chemistry.
Writing- Great!
Content-
Language- maybe a handful of infrequent swears. No f-words.
Spice- Plenty of convos/remarks referring to sex but had limited crude language. The actual sex scene had the curtain close at the perfect moment. I’d consider it steamy clean.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- no
Cover- I LOVE IT!
POV- 1st person, dual POV
Cliffhanger- No
Format- Audible purchase
Narration- great dual performance!
How I rated the series -
1 - Rookie Season - 5 stars
2 - Rival Season - 3.5 stars (rounded down)
3 - Rebel Season- 3.5 stars (rounded up)
August 7, 2026
I write this review being so sad this series is over. I loved every book so, so much and I wish we could have 10 more to see all of the couples happy.
Now let's chat about Rebel Season. Oh my goodness I LOVED it. These two had the best chemistry and really complimented one another. Fisher is the biggest cinnamon roll & a walking green flag. There were so many times that I was in awe of how he listened SO well to Lila. He truly wanted to be her friend and get to know HER and her world. And Lila was just such a sweetheart that was full of sass and I loved it. Her personality fit so well with Fisher. She challenged him! And watching her find her found family made my heart grow 10 sizes. It was so sweet watching the 3b loft kids welcome her no questions asked and accept her. There were so many tender moments in this book too. So many that made me tear up!!
And the humor in this one was top tier good. There's a specific scene with his parents that had me in literal tears laughing so hard. 😂
Now let's chat about Rebel Season. Oh my goodness I LOVED it. These two had the best chemistry and really complimented one another. Fisher is the biggest cinnamon roll & a walking green flag. There were so many times that I was in awe of how he listened SO well to Lila. He truly wanted to be her friend and get to know HER and her world. And Lila was just such a sweetheart that was full of sass and I loved it. Her personality fit so well with Fisher. She challenged him! And watching her find her found family made my heart grow 10 sizes. It was so sweet watching the 3b loft kids welcome her no questions asked and accept her. There were so many tender moments in this book too. So many that made me tear up!!
And the humor in this one was top tier good. There's a specific scene with his parents that had me in literal tears laughing so hard. 😂
August 31, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!!! For context, I’ve read all 3 of the hockey boys of loft 3B books. I loved Fischer’s dedication to Lila and the group being together so much throughout this book. I’m glad the authors wrapped up some loose ends and did their best to make it feel like the end of an era. I’m rating this one 3.5/5 because it fell flat for me in some places while the innuendo and cursing felt amped up a bit in a way I didn’t really enjoy. The story was ok in terms of goals, but there were undertones in this that were distracting for me and drew away from the story imo, but the goals hinged on those aspects so it just didn’t hit right for me if that makes sense. I can see the lure of the series for college aged readers though.
September 5, 2026
4.75⭐️
I adore these two as a couple. First of all I love the marriage of convenience trope so I was immediately sold but I also love Fisher in this series and I’m so happy that we got Lila bc I weirdly connected w/her idk why.
It was a super cute read tho
This series in general was a really cute trilogy
I adore these two as a couple. First of all I love the marriage of convenience trope so I was immediately sold but I also love Fisher in this series and I’m so happy that we got Lila bc I weirdly connected w/her idk why.
It was a super cute read tho
This series in general was a really cute trilogy
August 30, 2026
2.5⭐ This way least favorite of the series. Definitely will not pass along to my teen. The story didn't have explicit content, but there was so much language and innuendo coded language that it didn't matter. The physical attraction and desire overshadowed any kind of connection and romance. Fisher felt shallow because all his humor and deflection relied on lust and sexual suggestions. Even Ally and Hazel felt different and not in a good way. No thanks.
August 23, 2026
I kinda expected more from fishers book and this didn’t really do it for me. It was a little too instalovey for me and I found myself skimming the last 30%. It did have really funny and heartfelt moments but just wasn’t my favorite of the series
Thank you Eleventh Avenue Publishing for the advanced copy!
Thank you Eleventh Avenue Publishing for the advanced copy!
July 28, 2026
Favorite Quote:
“Not happening, Lila,” he whispers before kissing the top of my head. “I’m not going anywhere. So, in one way or another, you’re stuck with me forever. Whatever that might look like. I’ve never connected with someone the way I have with you”
How can it be over?! 😭 I already miss the 3B gang so much!
Fisher most definitely fell first and fell harder and I love him for that. 🫠 And who doesn’t love a found family coming together for a cause!
I love that each couple got their own pet 🤣
Marriage of convenience is one of my all time favorite tropes and Katie and Leah knocked it out of the park with this one!
Thank you to the authors for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
“Not happening, Lila,” he whispers before kissing the top of my head. “I’m not going anywhere. So, in one way or another, you’re stuck with me forever. Whatever that might look like. I’ve never connected with someone the way I have with you”
How can it be over?! 😭 I already miss the 3B gang so much!
Fisher most definitely fell first and fell harder and I love him for that. 🫠 And who doesn’t love a found family coming together for a cause!
I love that each couple got their own pet 🤣
Marriage of convenience is one of my all time favorite tropes and Katie and Leah knocked it out of the park with this one!
Thank you to the authors for the advance copy. All thoughts are my own.
September 9, 2026
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again- after reading this book, I’m convinced Katie Bailey and Leah Brunner can do no wrong!
Fisher is the black sheep of his family playing hockey in the NHL instead working for the family company. When Fisher’s father makes plans to buy a historic firehouse to knock it down, Fisher enters into a marriage of convenience with Lila to save the firehouse and his inheritance.
Alright, this is marriage of convenience done PERFECTLY. There was so much anticipation for Fisher’s story and this book definitely delivered. I loved the banter, the dynamic between Lila and Fisher and seeing the characters from the previous books. I would love to see a spin off series with Louie, Fisher’s brother.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Fisher is the black sheep of his family playing hockey in the NHL instead working for the family company. When Fisher’s father makes plans to buy a historic firehouse to knock it down, Fisher enters into a marriage of convenience with Lila to save the firehouse and his inheritance.
Alright, this is marriage of convenience done PERFECTLY. There was so much anticipation for Fisher’s story and this book definitely delivered. I loved the banter, the dynamic between Lila and Fisher and seeing the characters from the previous books. I would love to see a spin off series with Louie, Fisher’s brother.
I received an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 28, 2026
i’m gonna miss my favorite hockey boys 🥲
September 11, 2026
Loved the Thai representation 🥰
September 24, 2026
3.5⭐️
I wasn’t overly impressed with this one, but I think that comes down more to personal preference. I can definitely see this book working for a lot of other readers!
The arranged marriage felt a little flimsy as the foundation for everything, especially when paired with the over-the-top playboy side of things.
I was also in a bit of a book slump when I read this, so that probably didn’t do the book any favors either.
I will say the found family is great! I loved all of the friends coming together. It was a great end to the series.
✨New girl vibes
I wasn’t overly impressed with this one, but I think that comes down more to personal preference. I can definitely see this book working for a lot of other readers!
The arranged marriage felt a little flimsy as the foundation for everything, especially when paired with the over-the-top playboy side of things.
I was also in a bit of a book slump when I read this, so that probably didn’t do the book any favors either.
I will say the found family is great! I loved all of the friends coming together. It was a great end to the series.
✨New girl vibes
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"You've made every colour of my life take on new tones, new depth. I want to keep seeing things in full colour. I can't go back to monochrome living."
4.75⭐️
The perfect conclusion to the boys of Loft 3B! It was wrapped up in their true emotional and wholesome style with an open future left to interpretation for what's next for them all. Rebel season is a swoon worthy sports romance combining fake marriage, family drama, and undeniable chemistry between two people from opposite worlds. Fisher was the perfect one to end this with, and in my opinion, the best of this series! I am honestly so sad it's over and want to relive this season with all of them.
"I'll show you more of my talents anytime you ask, Wife."
Hockey star and playboy, Fisher, has spent his life defying his wealthy and powerful family's expectations, while talented artist Lila is determined to protect the place that is the last reminder of her mother. When a drunken suggestion leads to a marriage of convenience, what begins as a mutually beneficial arrangement quickly becomes far more complicated with secrets and threats. Packed with sharp banter, heartfelt moments, and burning tension, this is an emotional romance about taking chances, challenging expectations, dealing with grief, and discovering that the best partnerships are often the ones you never saw coming.
Lila: OTP? Hercules: Offer to purchase. Real estate acronym, sorry. Lila: Don't be. Kind of like it when you talk douchey to me.
I knew I'd love Fisher as he is a golden retriever, but knowing his back story HURT. We all are aware the loud and class clown facade usually covers a deep routed issue and sadness, but the authors really honoured his character and men's mental health. Despite his upbringing, he grew into a loving, caring and loyal man. The biggest green flag ever!
Lila was by far my favourite FMC of this series. I have appreciated different representations of culture and looks in this series. Lila was what you expect from an artist: trendy, deep, and knows all the secret market and food spots that support smaller communities. I loved her fashion sense and resonated with her hesitance to trust Fisher as she dealt with her grief. She nicknamed him 'Hercules' and honestly, although he was giving me more Nate Archibald vibes, she was very much like Meg from Hercules so I liked this depiction! The slow burn and tension between these two was delicious and my only qualm is that this book and romance wasn't longer.
"After the year, you can do whatever you want with it. Throw it in the ocean for all I care." "How very Titanic of you." "You know in that movie, he paints her naked." "In your dreams, Fisher." "Every night."
The best part was this conclusion was the found family. Now that everyone is with their respective others, the banter is better and their family is complete and rich in love. The most fun I've had in this series was when they rally in the loft to rage bait Fisher's parents who are insufferable and cruel to Fisher. I would honestly reread this just for this scene alone because it is wild. And the fact it was Lila's decision shows her understanding of Fisher and how she is what he needs. The boys have remained consistent, adding to the wholesomeness of this book. The beautiful and emotional ending wrapped it all up into a neat and tidy bow.
All I am saying is, if they decide to perhaps do a novella of their futures or a holiday special, I will be first to read because I miss them already!
"It hits me that these people are my family. That the family I was just longing for, I already have.
eARC received via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
4.75⭐️
The perfect conclusion to the boys of Loft 3B! It was wrapped up in their true emotional and wholesome style with an open future left to interpretation for what's next for them all. Rebel season is a swoon worthy sports romance combining fake marriage, family drama, and undeniable chemistry between two people from opposite worlds. Fisher was the perfect one to end this with, and in my opinion, the best of this series! I am honestly so sad it's over and want to relive this season with all of them.
"I'll show you more of my talents anytime you ask, Wife."
Hockey star and playboy, Fisher, has spent his life defying his wealthy and powerful family's expectations, while talented artist Lila is determined to protect the place that is the last reminder of her mother. When a drunken suggestion leads to a marriage of convenience, what begins as a mutually beneficial arrangement quickly becomes far more complicated with secrets and threats. Packed with sharp banter, heartfelt moments, and burning tension, this is an emotional romance about taking chances, challenging expectations, dealing with grief, and discovering that the best partnerships are often the ones you never saw coming.
Lila: OTP? Hercules: Offer to purchase. Real estate acronym, sorry. Lila: Don't be. Kind of like it when you talk douchey to me.
I knew I'd love Fisher as he is a golden retriever, but knowing his back story HURT. We all are aware the loud and class clown facade usually covers a deep routed issue and sadness, but the authors really honoured his character and men's mental health. Despite his upbringing, he grew into a loving, caring and loyal man. The biggest green flag ever!
Lila was by far my favourite FMC of this series. I have appreciated different representations of culture and looks in this series. Lila was what you expect from an artist: trendy, deep, and knows all the secret market and food spots that support smaller communities. I loved her fashion sense and resonated with her hesitance to trust Fisher as she dealt with her grief. She nicknamed him 'Hercules' and honestly, although he was giving me more Nate Archibald vibes, she was very much like Meg from Hercules so I liked this depiction! The slow burn and tension between these two was delicious and my only qualm is that this book and romance wasn't longer.
"After the year, you can do whatever you want with it. Throw it in the ocean for all I care." "How very Titanic of you." "You know in that movie, he paints her naked." "In your dreams, Fisher." "Every night."
The best part was this conclusion was the found family. Now that everyone is with their respective others, the banter is better and their family is complete and rich in love. The most fun I've had in this series was when they rally in the loft to rage bait Fisher's parents who are insufferable and cruel to Fisher. I would honestly reread this just for this scene alone because it is wild. And the fact it was Lila's decision shows her understanding of Fisher and how she is what he needs. The boys have remained consistent, adding to the wholesomeness of this book. The beautiful and emotional ending wrapped it all up into a neat and tidy bow.
All I am saying is, if they decide to perhaps do a novella of their futures or a holiday special, I will be first to read because I miss them already!
"It hits me that these people are my family. That the family I was just longing for, I already have.
eARC received via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
August 28, 2026
4.5⭐️
🎙️narrated by Connor Crais & Cindy Kay
Omg I was so happy to be back with the boys in 3B! This little group of friends has become one I’ve loved!! Fischer & Lyla were the perfect ending! I ached for them both during this book. They were both a bit broken in their own ways, figuring life out while also trying to be the best person they each could be. A marriage of convenience is almost always going to hit for me & this one was no exception! Their friendship first pull & whirlwind romance had me smiling & giddy! The moments of hockey were great & the found family was probably the best part! The ending had me a bit teary eyed. These 6 friend will forever have a place in my heart! I need an epilogue novella asap 🫶🏼
🎧the audiobook was really good! Connor will always be one of my all time favorite male narrators & he was absolutely perfect for Fischer! Cindy is new to me & while I felt like it took me a bit to warm up to her, by the middle I really felt like she embodied the tough & confident Lyla perfectly! :) 4/5🎙️
Read if you love..
•found family!!
•pro hockey mmc
•artist fmc
•marriage of convenience
•forced proximity
•closed door romance
Thank you so much to must love audio, lyric audiobooks, & the author for the free audiobook!
🎙️narrated by Connor Crais & Cindy Kay
Omg I was so happy to be back with the boys in 3B! This little group of friends has become one I’ve loved!! Fischer & Lyla were the perfect ending! I ached for them both during this book. They were both a bit broken in their own ways, figuring life out while also trying to be the best person they each could be. A marriage of convenience is almost always going to hit for me & this one was no exception! Their friendship first pull & whirlwind romance had me smiling & giddy! The moments of hockey were great & the found family was probably the best part! The ending had me a bit teary eyed. These 6 friend will forever have a place in my heart! I need an epilogue novella asap 🫶🏼
🎧the audiobook was really good! Connor will always be one of my all time favorite male narrators & he was absolutely perfect for Fischer! Cindy is new to me & while I felt like it took me a bit to warm up to her, by the middle I really felt like she embodied the tough & confident Lyla perfectly! :) 4/5🎙️
Read if you love..
•found family!!
•pro hockey mmc
•artist fmc
•marriage of convenience
•forced proximity
•closed door romance
Thank you so much to must love audio, lyric audiobooks, & the author for the free audiobook!
September 8, 2026
this was good, but probably my least favorite of the series—and since I usually like finale books, that’s saying a lot.
i really liked exploring fisher’s backstory and getting more into him as a character, but I can’t help but think the book didn’t give me enough on lila. don’t get me wrong, i definitely enjoyed myself! their romance was very cute, and I thought all the found family sentimental payoff would be able to save this book, but it just wasn’t strong enough for me. i loved seeing all the characters together, but some of their scenes fell flat for me.
fisher and lila don’t lack chemistry, but it feels like there’s more to the story that i wish we could’ve gotten. i can’t say the book felt rushed, because i think the pacing was fine, but i felt like something was missing. i’m not sure what it is about this author(s) but they just seem to not be able to deliver fully.
overall, i do think the series is good and most people would enjoy it (maybe i’m just being nitpicky idk) so i do recommend!
i really liked exploring fisher’s backstory and getting more into him as a character, but I can’t help but think the book didn’t give me enough on lila. don’t get me wrong, i definitely enjoyed myself! their romance was very cute, and I thought all the found family sentimental payoff would be able to save this book, but it just wasn’t strong enough for me. i loved seeing all the characters together, but some of their scenes fell flat for me.
fisher and lila don’t lack chemistry, but it feels like there’s more to the story that i wish we could’ve gotten. i can’t say the book felt rushed, because i think the pacing was fine, but i felt like something was missing. i’m not sure what it is about this author(s) but they just seem to not be able to deliver fully.
overall, i do think the series is good and most people would enjoy it (maybe i’m just being nitpicky idk) so i do recommend!
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