10 Best Sports Romance Books
Looking for a winning combination of love and athleticism?
Dive into our curated list of the best sports romance books that score big on both passion and action. Whether you’re a fan of swoon-worthy athletes or fiery competitions, these novels promise to deliver the perfect blend of romance and sportsmanship.
From heart-pounding matches to steamy locker room encounters, get ready to fall head over heels in love with these tales of love and sports combined.
Best Sports Romance Books
1. The Deal by Elle Kennedy
“The Deal” is a captivating novel that revolves around the lives of Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham, who find themselves unexpectedly intertwined.
Hannah is a music major with a crush she’s desperate to impress, and Garrett is a star hockey player on the brink of losing his scholarship. In a mutually beneficial arrangement, Hannah agrees to tutor Garrett in exchange for his help in making her attractive to her crush.
What makes it amazing?
What stands out about “The Deal” is its perfect blend of humor, heart, and heat. The chemistry between Hannah and Garrett is electric, evolving from a simple arrangement into something deeply meaningful.
Elle Kennedy masterfully balances the development of their relationship with their personal growth, making it not just a love story but a journey of self-discovery and healing. The witty dialogue and genuine emotional moments make it a standout in the sports romance genre.
2. The Wall of Winnipeg and Me by Mariana Zapata
In “The Wall of Winnipeg and Me,” Vanessa Mazur knows she’s doing too much—working two jobs and acting as the unpaid assistant to Aiden Graves, a taciturn professional football player.
When she decides to quit and pursue her dream of becoming a designer, Aiden unexpectedly proposes a marriage of convenience to help him with his visa situation, pulling her back into his world.
What makes it amazing?
Mariana Zapata is the queen of slow-burn romances, and this book is a testament to her skill. The gradual build-up of the relationship between Vanessa and Aiden feels incredibly real and rewarding.
The depth of character development allows readers to truly understand and root for both characters. The book’s emotional depth, combined with its witty banter and heartwarming moments, makes it a compelling read.
3. Kulti by Mariana Zapata
“Kulti” follows the story of Sal Casillas, a professional soccer player who once idolized the legendary Reiner Kulti, only to become his coach.
The novel explores the shift from idolization to a complex, real-world relationship, filled with challenges, growth, and an evolving dynamic that surprises both of them.
What makes it amazing?
“Kulti” is an exceptional sports romance that delves deep into the world of professional soccer through the lens of a unique mentor-mentee relationship that blossoms into love.
Mariana Zapata’s slow-burn romance signature is on full display, offering readers a satisfyingly gradual romantic build-up. The dynamic between Sal and Kulti is not just romantic; it’s a profound journey of mutual respect, understanding, and support, making the eventual romance all the more rewarding.
4. From Lukov with Love by Mariana Zapata
“From Lukov with Love” features Jasmine Santos, a figure skater who’s spent her entire career in the shadows, and Ivan Lukov, her world champion figure skating partner who’s as infuriating as he is talented.
Forced to partner up for a year, their story is a tumultuous ride of banter, disagreements, and a grudging respect that slowly evolves into something more.
What makes it amazing?
The magic of “From Lukov with Love” lies in its ability to turn a hate-to-love trope into a beautifully crafted story of resilience, passion, and emotional growth.
Mariana Zapata excels in creating a richly detailed world of competitive figure skating, making the characters’ journey both authentic and compelling.
The slow-build romance is deeply satisfying, culminating in a partnership that’s about more than just love—it’s about shared dreams and perseverance.
5. Him by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy
“Him” is a poignant story that explores the rekindled friendship and emerging romance between Jamie Canning and Ryan Wesley, two former hockey camp best friends.
After years of separation, a chance encounter brings them back together, confronting their past and the unspoken feelings that have simmered for years.
What makes it amazing?
“Him” stands out for its deep emotional layers and the complex exploration of sexuality and love in the context of sports. Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy create a narrative that’s both heartwarming and intense, blending the competitive world of hockey with a touching love story.
The characters’ journey towards acceptance, both of themselves and by others, is handled with sensitivity and realism, making their romance all the more impactful.
6. Scoring Wilder by R.S. Grey
“Scoring Wilder” is a delightful mix of humor, romance, and soccer. The story follows Kinsley Bryant, an aspiring Olympic soccer player, who finds herself attracted to Liam Wilder, a professional soccer player turned coach, notorious for his playboy reputation.
As their paths cross on the field, their mutual attraction becomes a game of resisting temptation, with both their careers and hearts on the line.
What makes it amazing?
This book shines with its witty banter, engaging plot, and the undeniable chemistry between Kinsley and Liam. R.S. Grey masterfully navigates the balance between sports and romance, creating a story that is not only about love but also about personal growth and ambition.
The protagonist’s journey towards achieving her dreams, coupled with a tantalizing forbidden romance, makes “Scoring Wilder” a compelling and entertaining read that’s hard to put down.
7. The Hook Up by Kristen Callihan
“The Hook Up” is an enthralling story set against the backdrop of college football, where Anna Jones, a girl who wants nothing to do with the dating scene, meets Drew Baylor, the star quarterback.
Despite her reservations, Anna finds herself drawn to Drew, embarking on a secret relationship that challenges both their views on love and relationships.
What makes it amazing?
Kristen Callihan crafts a deep and emotionally charged narrative that explores the complexities of love and identity within the high-pressure world of college sports.
The development of Anna and Drew’s relationship is beautifully depicted, showcasing their vulnerabilities and growth. The book’s ability to blend intense emotional depth with the excitement and camaraderie of college football sets it apart, making “The Hook Up” a must-read for fans of the genre.
8. Pucked by Helena Hunting
“Pucked” introduces readers to Violet Hall, who, after a hilarious yet embarrassing encounter, finds herself involved with Alex Waters, the team captain of a professional hockey team.
Despite the media frenzy and the chaos of the sports world, their relationship blossoms into something real, challenging their initial perceptions and the public scrutiny they face.
What makes it amazing?
Helena Hunting delivers a perfect blend of humor, steam, and heartfelt moments in “Pucked.” The novel stands out for its unique characters, especially Violet, whose quirky and relatable personality captures the reader’s heart.
The dynamic between Violet and Alex, filled with laugh-out-loud moments and genuine emotion, showcases a different side of the sports romance genre, focusing on the personal lives and challenges faced by athletes off the field.
9. Wait for It by Mariana Zapata
In “Wait for It,” Diana Casillas finds herself unexpectedly thrust into the role of a parent, taking care of her two young nephews. Her new neighbor, Dallas Walker, a local baseball coach, becomes an unexpected ally and friend.
As they navigate the challenges of parenting and their past personal traumas, a slow-building romance develops, revealing the strength and resilience of love.
What makes it amazing?
“Wait for It” is remarkable for its deep emotional resonance and the slow, burning romance that Mariana Zapata is known for. The novel excels in its portrayal of family dynamics, personal growth, and the healing power of love.
The gradual build-up of Dallas and Diana’s relationship, set against their individual journeys of self-discovery, makes their eventual coming together all the more powerful and satisfying. The book is a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best things in life are worth waiting for.
10. Beard Science by Penny Reid
“Beard Science” is part of Penny Reid’s “Winston Brothers” series and tells the story of Jennifer Sylvester, the “Banana Cake Queen” of Green Valley, Tennessee, who wants more out of life than just being part of her family’s bakery empire.
She blackmails Cletus Winston, the most cunning of the Winston brothers, into helping her find a husband. What starts as a simple agreement evolves into a complex, heartwarming journey of self-discovery and love.
What makes it amazing?
Penny Reid blends humor, intellect, and romance in “Beard Science,” creating a story that is both entertaining and deeply emotional. The uniqueness of this book lies in its characters, especially Cletus, whose brilliant but eccentric mind makes for a fascinating romantic lead.
The slow evolution of Jennifer and Cletus’s relationship, from unlikely allies to deeply connected lovers, is beautifully written, offering a fresh take on the romance genre. This book is a wonderful mix of laughs, love, and life lessons, making it a standout read.
