Before hockey romance took over our bookshelves, there were a few titles that set the rink on fire and paved the way for the obsession we have today. These all-time favorite hockey romance books are true classics—those older titles that kicked off the hockey romance craze and still hold a special place in our hearts. If you’re a fan of steamy locker room banter, heartwarming love stories, and the original bad boys of the ice, then you’re in for a treat. These 12 books are the ones that started it all, proving that hockey romance is here to stay.
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12 All Time Favorite Hockey Romance Books
Good Guy by Kate Meader
Levi is an NHL rookie and Special Forces vet, and Jordan is the determined sports reporter assigned to cover him. The twist? She’s his best friend’s widow, and they shared a forbidden kiss. Expect forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers sparks, and a grumpy hero with a secret soft spot.
Body Check by Elle Kennedy
Hayden wants a break from the hockey life—but Brody Croft, the star player on her dad’s team, isn’t easy to forget. After one unexpected night, he’s ready for more. This spicy romance brings forbidden love, family tension, and the irresistible chemistry of a determined athlete and a guarded heroine.
On the Surface by Kate Willoughby
Tim, an NHL player with a bad rep, meets Erin, a pediatric nurse who knows nothing about hockey, and sparks fly when he defends her at an event. Their chemistry grows, but Erin doubts if a hockey star can be serious. Can Tim prove he’s more than just a player?
Game Misconduct by Bianca Sommerland
Oriana wants to escape her controlling father and finds herself drawn to the unrestrained passion of Cobra’s playmaker, Max. He’s all about twisted desires and shared pleasures, and when Oriana needs a way out, their “team” takes on a whole new meaning.
Want to get a taste? Check out our character interview with Sloan from Game Misconduct by Bianca Sommerland and read a hot excerpt.
Simply Irresistible by Rachel Gibson
Georgeanne, a Southern belle, ditches her wealthy older fiancé and ends up spending a steamy night with bad-boy hockey star, John. Years later, their paths cross again—and John learns they have a daughter. Now, he’s ready to prove he’s changed, but can Georgeanne trust him again?
Blindsided by Victoria Denault
Enemies-to-lovers, forbidden romance, and family rivalry collide when a hockey player and the girl from the farm next door face off. Secrets, tension, and undeniable attraction make breaking the rules dangerously tempting, but surrendering to their feelings risks everything they both hold dear.
Taking a Shot by Jaci Burton
Jenna’s over sports—until pro hockey star Ty walks into her bar. He’s determined to make her see there’s more to life (and him) than jerseys and jocks. But can she take a shot at love with a guy she swore she’d never fall for?
If you’re a fan of sports romances, you have to read this series! Check out our complete Play by Play by Jaci Burton series guide to learn more.
A Lie for a Lie by Helena Hunting
A chance Alaska meeting leads to a steamy, secret romance between an NHL captain and a woman who doesn’t know his real identity. A year later, they’re reunited—but old lies and new secrets could ruin their second chance at love.
Maybe This Time by Jennifer Snow
Abby’s sworn off hockey players after her divorce, but her daughter joining a team means facing Coach Jackson—her ex’s old friend who used to have a crush on her. Abby’s fresh start gets complicated as sparks fly with the handsome coach who’s always kept his distance.
I Want You Back by Lorelei James
Jaxson, a former NHL star, wants a second chance with Lucy—his ex and mother of his daughter, Mimi. Lucy’s skeptical about his new co-parenting focus, but Jax’s commitment and their undeniable attraction spark hope. Can they overcome their past to become the family they once dreamed of?
Good Boy by Elle Kennedy and Sarina Bowen
Jess is determined to prove herself by hosting her brother’s perfect wedding—despite her history with Blake, the best man. Blake’s ready to show Jess he’s more than a flirt. This funny, heartfelt hockey romance brings opposites together with irresistible charm and persistence.
Alex by Sawyer Bennett
Cold-hearted hockey star Alex must fix his bad-boy image through community service, which puts him side-by-side with Sutton, a no-nonsense social worker. Sparks fly as Sutton discovers the vulnerability behind Alex’s rough exterior, and Alex finds himself drawn to a connection he never expected.
I hope this list of all-time favorite hockey romance books brought back some wonderful memories or introduced you to some classic reads that deserve a spot on your TBR. Let me know in the comments if you’ve read these titles or if there are others that you think should be considered timeless hockey romance staples. And if you’re in the mood for more hockey romance, be sure to check out the other blog posts below.
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Lots of those would make my all-time list, too. I need to finish off some of these series.
Isn’t it the hardest? Falling behind on some favorite series and then never having the time to catch up.
Yes Please. Now this is a list I can get behind…. Hockey before it became tiktok popular..
I keep putting off Play by Play coz of all the books now out in the series (I’m yet to read Taking the Shot and onwards)… Good reminder to put this on my list in 2025.
Ah the good old days before Booktok. We have a lot of old recommendation lists to bring back out of archive (from our old server move) so lots of good and oldies recs to dust off. Play by Play is always a fun one. Check out our Play by Play series guide for more enticement if needed 😉