Can You Recommend Hockey Romance Novels With Fake Dating Plots?

I absolutely adore hockey romance novels, especially those with fake dating tropes—they combine the intensity of sports with the slow burn of pretend relationships turning real. One standout is 'The Deal' by Elle Kennedy. It follows Hannah Wells, a college student who agrees to fake date Garrett Graham, the star hockey player, to make her crush jealous. The chemistry between them is electric, and the way their fake relationship evolves into something deeper is both heartwarming and steamy. Kennedy nails the balance between sports action and romance, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Another gem is 'Pucked Off' by Helena Hunting. This one features Lance Romero, a hockey player with a reputation, who enters a fake relationship with his best friend’s sister to clean up his image. The tension between them is palpable, and the way their arrangement blurs into genuine feelings is beautifully written. Hunting’s humor and knack for emotional depth make this a standout. The hockey backdrop adds grit, while the fake dating plot keeps things deliciously unpredictable.

For a more recent pick, 'Icebreaker' by A.L. Graziadei is a fantastic choice. It centers around two rival hockey players who fake date to avoid media scrutiny. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is perfection, and the hockey scenes are so vivid you’ll feel like you’re on the ice. Graziadei’s writing captures the competitive spirit of the sport while weaving in tender moments that make the fake dating trope shine. The emotional payoff is worth every page.

If you’re into LGBTQ+ romances, 'Heated Rivalry' by Rachel Reid is a must. While it doesn’t strictly follow a fake dating plot, the secret relationship between Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov—two rival hockey players—has similar vibes. The tension, the forbidden nature of their connection, and the hockey rivalry create a story that’s impossible to put down. Reid’s portrayal of their relationship is raw and passionate, with enough hockey action to keep sports fans hooked.

Lastly, 'The Fake Out' by Stephanie Archer is a fun, flirty take on the trope. It follows a hockey player who fake dates his team’s physical therapist to convince his ex he’s moved on. The banter is top-tier, and the slow build of their relationship feels organic. Archer’s attention to detail in both the hockey world and the emotional arcs of her characters makes this a standout. The fake dating setup is executed with just the right amount of tension and humor.