Rebels of the Rink (Arctic Titans of Northwood U Book 5) by Hayden Hall

Tyler has always been there for Sebastian, and getting over his most recent break up is another blow to Sebastian's confidence. Tyler comes to a conclusion, what if being together as more than friends is what makes them both happy?  Rebels of the Rink is the 5th in the Arctic Titans of Northwood U series. 

From the blurb:

Tyler is my best buddy on the planet. We would move mountains for each other. So when I discover that my girl has been cheating on me, it’s my best friend’s job to put me back together.

His own troubles in the love nest are brewing. His girlfriend is jealous of all the time Tyler spends cheering me up.  

She doesn’t understand. Nobody gets us. We had always been each other’s rocks. And when Tyler is forced to choose between me and his girl, my whole life is turned upside down.

He chooses me. And he makes me happier than he can understand.

Maybe we are each other’s soulmates.

The only problem is…neither of us is into guys.

It’s a cruel cosmic joke to make me fall in love with my best friend and never be able to do anything about it. But once I see the truth behind the veil of fog and confusion, I can never unsee it.

I want him. Even if it means learning to like a whole new style.

Rebels of the Rink is the fifth novel in the Arctic Titans on Northwood U series. It features two best friends, double-bi-awakening, ice-melting heat, and heart-rendering sweetness. You can expect all the usual Arctic Titans shenanigans, a leap from youth to adulthood, and a rollercoaster of emotions. Rebels of the Rink can be read on its own, but it’s best enjoyed when read in order.


Reed Kaye's Review:

This series is best read in order but can be a standalone. Many of the characters were in previous books.
Tyler and Seb have been friends since childhood. Currently college roommates, both having relationships that just are not serious enough, they find themselves in a position to reexamine what they want and what they are looking for. They both examine how important their friendship is and what they are willing to put on the line for it.

This is an intense book. Both guys have issues with families which add to the issues they face in careers and relationships. There is so much to this book and the characters are both lovable. I especially loved how Tyler looked out for Seb and how Seb came to feel some self worth. Seb comes from an almost unbelievable family.

I am enjoying this series and can’t wait for the next.


SNiK's Review:

Fifth in series (Arctic Titans of Northwood U), can be read as a standalone but might be more fun if read in order given the shared cast of characters. Childhood best friends/teammates/roommates to lovers. Dual POV. Reeling from his most recent break up, Sebastian can always rely on Tyler to help, keeping him busy with hockey, studying and training. Tyler wants Sebastian to be happy more than anything, and suddenly he realizes that maybe he would be the best person for Sebastian, even though neither have them have ever been romantically involved with a man. 

The relationship growth between Sebastian and Tyler is one of the most realistic I have ever read, it builds organically, with plenty of doubts and true hesitation about how to move forward with the physical aspects of being a romantic couple. They even question whether the attraction is temporary given it’s so new, but constantly have honest conversations about what they want from their relationship. A really sweet and spicy story.


Angel's Review:

I haven't read too many of Hayden's books, but the ones I have read have all been written well. Including this one! I really appreciated how the deep connection that Tyler and Sebastian has was showcased. Those moments where they were there for each other no matter what, were such tender moments, that really showed how much they mean to one another.

With this being a hockey book, I thought it would be more hockey forward. However, that was not the case. While there was a scene or two of them playing/practicing, and it being mentioned, there wasn't really much hockey that was involved. Which I enjoyed! I like that this book focused on the characters, and the relationship development that occurs between them.

I love friends to lovers and this one was done so well! You can really tell how close these two men are and how much they cherish one another. I thought the pacing might've been a bit too fast? As far as how fast they became intimate, they kissed once, (something happened that I won't spoil) and then it was full steam ahead. So that seemed a bit fast for me, but it didn't detract for the story. There is some angst that occurs, but it's very minimal. It only happens on a few pages, so while there is some, it's mild. Overall a really fantastic story about friends becoming lovers!


Heather's Review:

Friends to lovers, bi-awakening, add in a lifetime of loving each other and being teammates and roommates and you get a wonderful new adult romance set in the Northwood U Titans universe!  These two have all the ingredients for a romantic relationship except the romance... until they kiss...

I love the way they transition from best friends to lovers and how they manage to keep talking throughout the book... this book blends the sweet, the spicy and sprinkles in just a hint of angst, swirled with friends and family and growing up and into their new reality.

While this book could be read standalone, you'll enjoy it more if you read the Arctic Titans of Northwood U books in the order they have been published. 


Rebels of the Rink is currently available as an e-book and paperback and can be read as part of your Kindle Unlimited Subscription

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