Popular Hockey Romance Books to Read and Fall in Love With
Ice hockey romance novels combine the exhilarating, fast-paced action of the sport with heartwarming and often steamy romantic plots. These stories are set against the backdrop of icy rinks, intense games, and the high-stakes world of professional or collegiate hockey. They offer readers a chance to delve into the lives of rugged and talented athletes who find love amidst the challenges and triumphs of their demanding careers. After the Stanley Cup has been won, and hockey isn't on television every day, I have major withdrawals! But, these hockey sports romance books get me through the break until hockey season begins again! Whether you're a hockey fan or simply enjoy a good love story, ice hockey romance books offer a perfect blend of passion, drama, and heartfelt moments.
Hockey romance books attract a diverse group of readers who are united by their love for both romance and the dynamic world of sports. These novels blend the thrilling action of hockey with the emotional depth and intimacy of romantic relationships, creating a compelling combination that appeals to many. Here are some of the groups who are particularly drawn to hockey romance books:
Sports Enthusiasts: Fans of hockey and other sports are naturally attracted to these books as they offer a deeper dive into the lives of athletes. The accurate portrayal of the sport, from the intense hockey game feel to the camaraderie in the locker room, adds an extra layer of excitement for sports lovers.
Romance Readers: Readers who enjoy romance genre novels are drawn to hockey romance books for their heartfelt and often steamy love stories. The backdrop of the competitive sports world provides a unique setting that enhances the romance, making the storylines more engaging and multifaceted. This particular category of romance novels are a popular choice both for hockey lovers and those just looking for adventures of broken heart, forbidden love, and a good luck charm tossed in will have you unable to put down these books for good reason!
Women: While sports romance books are enjoyed by all genders, they have a significant following among women. The combination of strong, athletic male protagonists and well-developed romantic plots resonates with female readers who appreciate both aspects.
Readers Seeking Escapism: Hockey romance novels offer a perfect escape from everyday life, transporting readers into a world of high-stakes games, intense emotions, and passionate love. The blend of sports and romance provides a thrilling and immersive reading experience.
Fans of Character-Driven Stories: Those who appreciate character development and interpersonal dynamics find hockey romance books particularly satisfying. The characters often undergo significant growth, both in their sports careers and personal lives, making their journeys compelling and relatable.
Hockey romance books captivate a wide range of readers by combining the excitement of sports with the allure of romance. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a romance aficionado, or someone looking for an engaging escape, these novels offer something for everyone. The intense action on the ice paired with the deep emotional connections off it creates a rich, multifaceted reading experience that keeps fans coming back for more. If you haven’t yet explored this genre, diving into a hockey romance novel might just introduce you to a thrilling new world of storytelling. This list of hockey books will give you a solid list of options to dive into the romance of main characters on and off the ice. Enjoy some hot summer books with some ultimate bad boy characters in the most popular sport! Enjoy!
Popular Hockey Romance Books to Read and Fall in Love With
"A Lie for a Lie" by Helena Hunting
Main Characters: Rook Bowman and Lainey Carver
NHL player Rook Bowman escapes to Alaska for a break from his high-profile life and meets Lainey Carver. They share a passionate fling, but secrets and lies threaten their burgeoning relationship when they meet again under very different circumstances. Rook must navigate the truth and win back Lainey's trust.
"Behind the Net"
Main Characters: Jake Donovan and Emily Carter
Hockey player Jake Donovan is at a crossroads, struggling with his career and personal life. He meets Emily Carter, a driven and compassionate woman who helps him find balance. As their connection deepens, Jake must decide whether he can fully commit to both his sport and the woman who has captured his heart.
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"Center Ice"
Main Characters: Ryan Thomson and Sarah Dawson
Aspiring hockey player Ryan Thomson is determined to make it to the big leagues. His focus is challenged when he meets Sarah Dawson, a passionate and dedicated sports journalist. Their budding romance faces obstacles as they balance career ambitions with their growing feelings for each other.
Consider Me by Becka Mack
Meet Carter Beckett, the NHL’s top player. He’s got it all—career success, friends who are killing it, and a line of women eager to spend the night. But then he meets Olivia Parker, a teacher who’s not interested in dating a hotshot athlete. Sparks fly, and Carter’s game plan takes an unexpected turn. Will Olivia consider him? This is book 1 in the For Keeps Series that are very popular!
Dump and Chase by Anna Albo
Tangi Kildare has no regrets. Not about falling for sweet, serious, sexy Ethan Grant. Not about giving up college and moving to a different country to support his pro hockey career. And definitely not about breaking up with him—she wasted half her twenties on his commitment phobia.
"Famous Last Words"
Main Characters: Jack Morgan and Kate AndrewsJournalist Kate Andrews is assigned to cover the hockey team led by star player Jack Morgan. Initially skeptical of Jack's playboy reputation, Kate discovers a deeper, more complex side to him. Their professional relationship soon blossoms into a romance, but they must navigate public scrutiny and personal boundaries.
For Pucking Keeps by D. Sparks
I’m Alexis Rhodes, but you can call me Jazminne Starr, indie author, and this is my story. I moved to Seattle for gray skies, rainy days, and hopeful for inspiration. Suffering from writer’s block, a broken heart, and a looming deadline, I was desperate. I got the bright idea to write a sports romance. A hockey romance. Easy, right?
Little did I know my desperate attempt for my next bestseller would lead me to a hockey game that would change my life forever. A change that came in the form of the superstar Captain and Center of the Seattle Vipers Hockey team, Torrance “Tor” Bailey.
"Game On" by Kelly Jamieson
Main Characters: Marc Dupuis and Lovey Armstrong
Summary: NHL player Marc Dupuis is on a mission to win back his ex-girlfriend, Lovey Armstrong. As he fights to regain her trust and navigate the pressures of his career, Marc realizes that balancing love and hockey is the ultimate challenge. Their journey is one of forgiveness, growth, and rediscovered passion.
"Hard Hitter" by Sarina Bowen
Main Characters: Patrick O’Doul and Ari Bettini
Hockey player Patrick O’Doul is recovering from an injury and starts working with yoga instructor Ari Bettini. Their professional relationship soon turns personal as they help each other confront and overcome past traumas. Their romance is one of healing, trust, and mutual support.
Hard to Handle by K. Bromberg
Main Characters: Hunter Maddox and Dekker Kincade
Hunter Maddox, a star player professional athlete for the Jacksonville Rays, is known for his rough exterior and dedication to hockey. When he meets Dekker Kincade, a strong-willed woman with her own challenges, sparks fly. As they navigate personal insecurities and the pressures of professional sports, their chemistry becomes undeniable, leading to a passionate and heartfelt romance.
Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid
Main Characters: Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov
This book explores the intense and secret romance between two rival hockey players who are also best friends. Shane Hollander, a star player for the Montreal Voyageurs, has always been focused on his career. Ilya Rozanov, his fierce competitor from the Boston Bears, has a more flamboyant and carefree approach to life. Despite their on-ice rivalry and contrasting personalities, they share a deep, hidden connection that has been simmering for years.
"Him" by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy
Main Characters: Jamie Canning and Ryan Wesley
Childhood friends and former hockey teammates Jamie Canning and Ryan Wesley reunite at a summer training camp. As they confront unresolved feelings, their friendship evolves into a heartfelt and steamy romance. The story explores themes of love, acceptance, and the courage to embrace one’s true self.
"Ice Knights Book 1” by Avery Flynn
Main Characters: Various (focus on different players in each book)
This fun and flirty Ice Knights series follows the lives of the Ice Knights hockey team. Each book focuses on different players as they navigate love, friendships, and the pressures of their professional careers. The series is filled with humor, heart, and the dynamic interactions of team life.
"Icebreaker" by Hannah Grace
Main Characters: Anastasia Allen and Nathan Hawkins
Summary: Competitive figure skater Anastasia Allen and hockey team captain Nathan Hawkins are forced to share a rink at the University of California, Maple Hills. Despite her initial reservations, Anastasia finds herself drawn to Nathan. Their chemistry is undeniable, challenging her belief that she could never like a hockey player.
"If You Hate Me"
Main Characters: Logan Reed and Mia SandersLogan Reed, a fiery and determined hockey player, finds himself at odds with Mia Sanders, a woman who initially can’t stand him. As circumstances force them together, they uncover deeper layers of their animosity and attraction, leading to a passionate and tumultuous romance.
"Intercepted" by Alexa Martin
Main Characters: Marlee Harper and Gavin Pope
Marlee Harper, fresh from a breakup with her cheating professional hockey player boyfriend, swears off dating athletes. Enter Gavin Pope, a charismatic quarterback who challenges her resolve and captures her heart. Their relationship navigates the highs and lows of public life and personal trust.
"Irresistible You" by Kate Meader
Main Characters: Remy DuPre and Harper Chase
Remy DuPre, a veteran player traded to the Boston Blades, is determined to lead the struggling team to victory in the first book of the series . Harper Chase, the team's new owner, is equally determined to prove herself in the male-dominated world of hockey management. Sparks fly as Remy and Harper clash over the future of the team, but their professional rivalry quickly turns into an intense and passionate romance.
"Mister Hockey" by Lia Riley
Main Characters: Jed West and Breezy Angel
NHL star Jed West meets his biggest fan, librarian Breezy Angel. Despite their differences in lifestyle and personality, they navigate a budding romance filled with humor, heart, and unexpected twists. Their journey highlights the importance of staying true to oneself while embracing love.
"Off Campus" by Amy Jo Cousins
Main Characters: Tom Worthington and Reese Anders
Summary: Tom Worthington and Reese Anders, college roommates, find their friendship evolving into something more. As Tom returns to school and tries to get his life back on track, his growing feelings for Reese complicate everything. Their story is one of self-discovery, acceptance, and navigating new territories of love.
"Pucked" by Helena Hunting
Main Characters: Alex Waters and Violet Hall
Summary: Violet Hall meets NHL star Alex Waters and is determined to keep things casual. However, Alex’s charm and persistence break down her walls, leading to a rollercoaster of emotions and a deeply passionate relationship. Their journey is filled with humor, misunderstandings, and undeniable chemistry.
"Sweet Collide"
Main Characters: Lucas Drake and Emma Bennett
Lucas Drake, a hockey player, and Emma Bennett, a bakery owner, find themselves drawn to each other despite their different worlds. Their love story is sweet and heartwarming, proving that opposites do attract. Together, they navigate the challenges of balancing their careers and personal lives.
"Taking Shots" by Toni Aleo
Main Characters: Shea Adler and Ellie Fisher
Photographer Ellie Fisher has sworn off love, but when she meets Nashville Assassins hockey player Shea Adler, her resolve is tested. As they navigate personal insecurities and the pressures of Shea’s career, they find themselves falling deeply in love. Their romance is one of vulnerability, trust, and passion.
The Chase by Elle Kennedy (Briar U Series)
Everyone says opposites attract. And they must be right, because there’s no logical reason why I’m so drawn to Colin Fitzgerald. I don’t usually go for tattoo-covered, video-gaming, hockey-playing nerd-jocks who think I’m flighty and superficial. His narrow view of me is the first strike against him. It doesn’t help that he’s buddy-buddy with my brother. This is the first book in the four book series and is a New York Times bestseller!
"The Deal" by Elle Kennedy
Main Characters: Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham
College student Hannah Wells agrees to tutor hockey captain Garrett Graham to get closer to her crush. Sparks fly, leading to an unexpected romance filled with humor, heart, and sizzling chemistry. Their story is one of mutual support, growth, and discovering unexpected connections. This book got huge quickly thanks to Tiktok - make social media reviews!
"The Enforcer"
Main Characters: Max Turner and Lily Harper
Tough-as-nails hockey enforcer Max Turner meets his match in Lily Harper, a woman who challenges his perception of strength and vulnerability. Their romance is intense and transformative, highlighting the softer side of the enforcer. Together, they explore themes of resilience, love, and personal growth.
"The Hookup" by Kristen Ashley
Main Characters: Johnny Gamble and Izzy Forrester
When hockey star Johnny Gamble meets single mother Izzy Forrester, sparks fly. They navigate their pasts and a deep connection, leading to a heartwarming and passionate romance. Their journey is one of overcoming obstacles and embracing love.
"The Year We Fell Down" by Sarina Bowen
Main Characters: Corey Callahan and Adam Hartley
Corey Callahan’s dreams of playing hockey are shattered by an injury. As she adjusts to life in a wheelchair, she forms a deep connection with fellow student Adam Hartley, a hockey player dealing with his own struggles. Their relationship is one of mutual support, acceptance, and finding new dreams.
"Unsteady"
Main Characters: Ben Foster and Julia Thompson
Hockey player Ben Foster, dealing with instability in his career, finds stability and love with Julia Thompson, a woman who understands his struggles. Their journey is one of mutual support and growth, leading to a stronger bond and a brighter future together.
"Until It Fades" by K.A. Tucker
Main Characters: Catherine Wright and Brett Madden
Single mother Catherine Wright saves NHL star Brett Madden from a car crash, thrusting her into the public eye. As they grow closer, Catherine grapples with her past and her feelings for Brett. Their story is one of overcoming adversity, finding love, and embracing second chances.
Ice hockey romance novels offer a unique and engaging escape for readers, blending the high-energy world of hockey with heartfelt and often sizzling romantic plots. These stories not only explore the intense and competitive nature of the sport but also delve into the personal lives and relationships of the characters, creating a rich and immersive reading experience. The characters often face real-life challenges and emotional growth, making their love stories all the more compelling and relatable.
Whether you're a long-time fan of hockey or new to the genre, there's something undeniably captivating about the mix of ice-cold action and red-hot romance. From college campuses to professional leagues, these books provide a thrilling backdrop for love stories that are sure to warm your heart and keep you turning the pages. So grab a blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and dive into the world of ice hockey romance – you might just find your new favorite book or even a new appreciation for the sport.
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