Cover of Face Off: D.C. Stars, Book 1

Face Off: D.C. Stars, Book 1

by Adam Gold Chelsea Curto

4.3
Published April 9 2026
Sports Romance Romantic Comedy hate to lovegrumpy sunshineslow burnrivals to loversbully to boyfriend

Emerson "Emmy" Hartwell is ready to prove she belongs on the professional stage, and securing a spot on the D.C. Stars roster is her big break. However, she quickly finds herself clashing with the team’s captain, Maverick Miller. Maverick is the league’s most talented player, but he’s also a notorious playboy who has never led his team to a winning record. Forced to work closely to turn the franchise around, the two are polar opposites whose friction on the ice is only matched by their intense chemistry off of it. After a single night of passion pushes their tension to the breaking point, Emmy and Maverick strike a deal: they’ll keep things strictly physical to get it out of their systems, ensuring no distractions for the season. It’s a classic dislike-to-lovers setup where both vow to keep their hearts guarded. Yet, as one encounter turns into a recurring arrangement, the lines between their professional goals and personal desires begin to blur. Featuring a "he falls first" dynamic and sharp, addictive banter, *Face Off* is a high-stakes sports romance that explores whether two headstrong athletes can find genuine love while navigating the pressure of a professional season.