Small towns have a charm that’s hard to resist. And when you add in a sports hero, things can get even more interesting. Small town sports romances are perfect for readers who love to root for the underdog and enjoy a good love story. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top small town sports love stories that are sure to make your heart race.
“The Perfect Game” by J. Sterling
“The Perfect Game,” tells the story of Cassie Andrews, a college student, and Jack Carter, a star pitcher on the university’s baseball team. Cassie and Jack develop a friendship that turns into a romantic relationship, despite Jack’s reputation as a player and the challenges of his baseball career. They navigate the ups and downs of college life and family drama while learning important lessons about love and trust. The novel is a heartwarming and emotional love story that explores themes of friendship, family, and following your heart.
“Intercepted” by Alexa Martin
“Intercepted” follows Marlee Harper, the girlfriend of an NFL player, who becomes increasingly frustrated with the toxic and misogynistic culture surrounding professional football. When her relationship ends due to her boyfriend’s infidelity, Marlee finds herself unexpectedly drawn to Gavin Pope, a retired football player turned business owner. As they navigate their budding romance, Marlee must also deal with her ex’s continued interference in her life and the intense scrutiny of the media and football fans. Along the way, the novel explores themes of female empowerment, toxic masculinity, and the complexities of modern relationships. “Intercepted” is a fun, sexy, and thought-provoking novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and sports fiction.
“The Deal” by Elle Kennedy
The book follows Hannah Wells, a music major at Briar University, and Garrett Graham, the captain of the school’s hockey team. In order to help her win the attention of a guy she’s interested in, Garrett agrees to tutor Hannah in exchange for her help in making him look more socially aware. As they spend more time together, they begin to develop feelings for each other. However, both Hannah and Garrett have past traumas that make it difficult for them to trust and open up to each other. The novel deals with themes of trust, vulnerability, and healing, and features steamy romantic scenes and witty banter. “The Deal” is the first book in the Off-Campus series and is a fan-favorite in the New Adult romance genre.
“Hard Hitter” by Sarina Bowen
“Hard Hitter,” tells the story of Patrick O’Doul, a bruising enforcer for the Brooklyn Bruisers hockey team, and Ari Bettini, the team’s massage therapist. When Ari is injured and unable to work, Patrick offers to help her out by taking her place in the massage room. As they spend more time together, they begin to develop feelings for each other, but Patrick’s painful past makes it difficult for him to trust in love. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Bruisers are struggling on the ice, and Patrick must confront his own insecurities and work with his teammates to turn the season around. “Hard Hitter” is a steamy and emotional love story that also delves into themes of family, forgiveness, and overcoming adversity. It is the second book in the Brooklyn Bruisers series but can be read as a standalone novel.
“The Wall of Winnipeg and Me” by Mariana Zapata
“The Wall of Winnipeg and Me” is a small town football romance that will make you believe in the power of persistence. The story follows Vanessa Mazur, the personal assistant of Aiden Graves, a star defensive end for the National Football Organization. When Aiden suddenly proposes a marriage of convenience to Vanessa in order to secure his citizenship, she reluctantly agrees. As they navigate the challenges of their fake marriage, Vanessa and Aiden slowly begin to understand and care for each other. However, their relationship is complicated by Aiden’s distant personality and past traumas, as well as Vanessa’s growing attraction to someone else. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the true meaning of love. It is a slow-burn romance that focuses on character development and emotional depth.