Last year, the TV series 'Heated Rivalry' debuted in Canada and the United States, quickly becoming a sensation. Its popularity grew further when episodes became available in Sweden early this year, drawing focus to the 'sports romance' genre—novels focusing on love in the world of sports. Sanna Axelsson, hailing from Nyköping, is one of the authors who has recently published a book in this genre, and it has garnered attention since its release earlier this year.

Axelsson has noted a significant surge in interest toward sports romance over the past year, especially following the TV show's release. She describes the growth as an "explosion," indicating a sharp increase in both readership and the love for the sports romance narrative among audiences. In interviews, she elaborates on what captivates readers about the genre and how the television success has positively influenced the visibility of her own work.

With her novel set in the skiing world, Axelsson has expressed a personal affinity for sports romance, highlighting that her engagement with the genre started long before the great interest manifested. Her experiences and observations not only echo the genre's appeal but also underscore the potential for sports romance to flourish, fueled by media adaptations like 'Heated Rivalry.'