Lesbian sports romances gain popularity with new novel
The genre of lesbian sports romances has gained significant attention, particularly in the wake of the success of Hearted Rivalry. Fans of women’s sports recognize that openly queer women excel in their careers while also forming relationships, often within the competitive atmosphere of their teams. A notable example is the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), where nearly one in four players openly identifies as queer. Cat Disabato’s latest novel, Rooting Interest, captures this intertwining of love and sports in a compelling narrative.
A love story on the court
Set against the backdrop of the WNBA’s All-Star weekend, Rooting Interest follows Jennifer Felix, a lesbian sports journalist who transitions from covering the NFL to this vibrant event. Initially, she struggles to connect with star player Natalie Czapski. However, Jennifer soon becomes captivated not only by the sport but also by Czapski herself. The narrative unfolds as Jennifer grapples with her growing feelings for a woman deeply committed to the game while striving to regain her footing in a competitive career.
Balancing love and ambition
The narrative highlights Jennifer’s struggle to navigate her deepening feelings for Natalie alongside her journalism aspirations. Natalie, who views her dedication to basketball as a paramount relationship, adds complexity to Jennifer’s journey. This tension serves as the emotional core of the novel, enabling readers to engage with the highs and lows of their romance. Despite the challenges and emotional turbulence that lie ahead, the story offers a hopeful resolution, leaving readers with a sense of satisfaction and optimism.
Queer representation in sports literature
Cat Disabato, in a recent interview with Go Mag, emphasized the limited availability of sapphic sports romance literature, particularly those featuring professional athletes. She noted, “There are actually very few sapphic sports romance books that exist, especially about professional athletes. I feel like I’ve read every single one of them.” This statement highlights the importance of Rooting Interest, which seeks to address this notable gap in the literary market, fostering more diverse storytelling within the realm of sports.
The WNBA’s vibrant community
The WNBA features a notably vocal and engaged fanbase, particularly within the queer community. As the narrative progresses, it explores the rich culture fostered by the WNBA, both on and off the court. The enthusiastic support from fans, coupled with the league’s commitment to inclusivity, cultivates an atmosphere where LGBTQ+ relationships can thrive. Rooting Interest not only narrates a love story but also celebrates the community surrounding the sport.
A journey beyond the pages
Readers who appreciated the intense dynamics of Hearted Rivalry will find Rooting Interest offers a similar mix of passionate romance and high-stakes emotion. The narrative follows the journey of Jennifer and Natalie, captivating fans with their story. Notably, 831 Stories, the publishing imprint behind this novel, is committed to creating immersive “book universes.” This initiative includes fanfiction inspired by the book and a special epilogue that delves into the couple’s life one year after their initial encounter.
Additionally, fans eager to showcase their enthusiasm for the story can purchase a “sports romance” hat, designed for the upcoming WNBA All-Star game. This thoughtful inclusion allows readers to connect with the narrative in a vibrant, community-driven manner.
Rooting Interest transcends the typical sports romance narrative by weaving together themes of love, ambition, and community. Jennifer and Natalie’s story unfolds to showcase the beauty of queer relationships. This narrative not only enriches the genre but also stands as a significant contribution to LGBTQ+ representation in sports. For readers seeking heartfelt connections and an exploration of identity, Rooting Interest represents a compelling addition to contemporary literature.