Still obsessed with 'Heated Rivalry'? Check out these hockey romances
- - Still obsessed with 'Heated Rivalry'? Check out these hockey romances
Clare Mulroy, USA TODAYJanuary 17, 2026 at 8:00 AM
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While others are going about their lives, we’re still mentally at the cottage from “Heated Rivalry.”
If steamy queer hockey love stories are consuming your every thought, you’re not alone. The viral explosion of the “Heated Rivalry” HBO series and its stars is sizzling screens, group chats and even the Golden Globes stage.
Last night, my boxing instructor played “All the Things She Said” during a sparring round and I practically levitated. Flyers are going around New York City inviting fans to sing the song at the top of their lungs in Tompkins Square Park (“Angsty? Yearning? Heated Rivalry withdrawals? Misery loves company,” the poster reads).
If you’re also feeling an Ilya and Shane-induced hangover, we’ve got you covered.
Books like ‘Heated Rivalry’
“Heated Rivalry” is based on the “Game Changers” series by Rachel Reid, and lucky fans are getting a new Hollanov tale this September. But if you’ve made it through Reid’s collection and can’t wait for more, here are six books you should read next.
‘The Kennedy Rule’ by K.C. Carmichael
"The Kennedy Rule" by K.C. Carmichael
This steamy M/M romance features the golden boy son of a hockey legend and his rival, the league’s most feared enforcer. For lack of a better phrase, they have one “heated rivalry,” until they’re forced to room together as Olympic teammates. What happens when their hatred boils over into obsession?
‘Like Real People Do’ by E.L. Massey
"Like Real People Do" by E.L. Massey
If you want a hockey romance that feels like a hug, try “Like Real People Do.” It follows Alex, a 19-year-old hockey superstar struggling with his anxiety, the expectations of the league and staying closeted. He finds an unexpected friend in Elijah, a college freshman vlogger recovering from a figure-skating injury. He’s out and proud online, and Alex could learn a thing or two from him.
‘Him’ by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy
"Him" by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy
Two old friends who fell out of touch after a drunken night at hockey camp reunite in “Him.” In Jamie’s mind, he lost his long-time friend without explanation. But to Ryan, their friendship ended after he persuaded the seemingly straight Jamie into a bet that went too far. When their college teams face off, it’ll finally be a chance for apologies and answers – or maybe more questions.
‘Wake Up Nat and Darcy’ by Kate Cochrane
In “Wake Up, Nat & Darcy,” a women's hockey team player is cut from her team and is scrambling for a new gig. When she takes up a role hosting a winter games coverage series, she discovers that her cohost is her ex-girlfriend, a teammate turned rival.
‘The Deal’ by Elle Kennedy
"The Deal" by Elle Kennedy
If you’re looking for M/F hockey romances with plenty of spice, try “The Deal.” This love story starts with the beloved fake-dating trope. Hannah has her eye on someone new, but she can only get his attention through jealousy. She agrees to tutor the annoying hockey team captain, Garrett, in exchange for a fake date. It’s all fun and games until an unexpected kiss changes everything.
‘Revolve’ by Bal Khabra
If you liked "Heated Rivalry," you may like a figure skater and hockey player dynamic too. "Revolve" follows Olympic figure skater Sierra, who's been unable to get back on the rink since her accident last year. Back on campus for her final year of college, she collides with reckless Dylan, who's just been kicked off the hockey team. Picking up figure skating seems to be his only option to get back on the ice. And could a new partner be Sierra’s chance at a comeback?
'Unrivaled' is coming: Everything we know about new 'Game Changers' book
Clare Mulroy is USA TODAY’s Books Reporter, where she covers buzzy releases, chats with authors and dives into the culture of reading. Find her on Instagram, subscribe to our weekly Books newsletter or tell her what you’re reading at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Books like 'Heated Rivalry' for more steamy hockey romance
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
