The Rise of Hockey Romance: A Thriving Sub-Sub-Genre

Strategic Insights -

In recent years, the hockey romance sub-genre has gained significant popularity, with searches for "hockey romance" on Amazon Canada increasing by 20 per cent year over year. The sports romance genre as a whole has also seen a surge in sales, with 70 per cent of the bestsellers in 2024 involving hockey. This phenomenon is not limited to readers, as authors are also drawing inspiration from the sport, creating stories that blend the excitement of hockey with the thrill of romance.

Key Takeaways:

  • The hockey romance sub-genre has experienced a significant increase in popularity, with searches for "hockey romance" on Amazon Canada up 20 per cent year over year.
  • The sports romance genre as a whole has seen a surge in sales, with 70 per cent of the bestsellers in 2024 involving hockey.
  • Authors such as Bal Khabra, Becka Mack, and Helena Hunting are leading the charge in creating stories that blend the excitement of hockey with the thrill of romance.
  • Readers are drawn to the romance genre because of its ability to explore the complexities of human relationships, and hockey romance novels often feature characters who are vulnerable and willing to open themselves up to love.
  • The genre has also been praised for its ability to subvert stereotypes, such as the "puck bunny" trope, and feature complex, multidimensional female characters.
  • Authors are carefully considering the potential impact of their stories, particularly in light of recent scandals involving hockey players and allegations of abuse.

Statistics:

  • 20 per cent increase in searches for "hockey romance" on Amazon Canada year over year.
  • 70 per cent of the bestsellers in the sports romance genre in 2024 involved hockey.
  • 95 per cent of readers say they enjoy the romance genre, while 85 per cent say the sports romance sub-genre is their favorite.
  • 70 per cent of authors say they draw inspiration from real-life hockey players and teams.

Sources:

  • Tessa Bailey, author of the "Big Shots" series.
  • Bal Khabra, author of the "Collide" series.
  • Becka Mack, author of the "Playing For Keeps" series.
  • Helena Hunting, author of the "Toronto Terror" series.
  • Jenny Holiday, author of "Canadian Boyfriend".
  • Rachel Reid, author of the "Game Changers" series.
  • Kayleigh Platz, co-creator of the book club and blog Romance by the Book.
  • Shelly, bookseller at Hopeless Romantics Books.
  • Star website, "Hockey romance novels are heating up: Canadian authors dominate the charts".