Dive into the electrifying world of the Chicago Stars, where heart-pounding football meets sizzling romance! Susan Elizabeth Phillips’ beloved contemporary romance series whisks readers into the lives of rugged athletes and the spirited women who steal their hearts, blending humor, passion, and the thrill of the game. With its irresistible mix of sports drama and emotional depth, Chicago Stars has captivated fans and critics alike, earning Phillips a crown as the 'Queen of Romantic Comedy.'
From the moment you crack open the first book, you’re hooked by witty banter, steamy chemistry, and characters who feel like old friends. Whether you’re a football fanatic or just love a good love story, this series delivers a touchdown every time.
How Chicago Stars Began
Susan Elizabeth Phillips, a former theater teacher turned stay-at-home mom, kicked off her romance-writing career with a bang. After co-authoring a historical romance, she struck out solo, creating the sports romance genre with her 1989 hit, Fancy Pants. But it was 1994’s It Had to Be You that launched the Chicago Stars series, introducing a fictional Chicago football team and a formula that blended athletic swagger with heartfelt romance. Inspired by her love for storytelling and a knack for humor, Phillips crafted a world where love tackles life’s toughest challenges.
The Heart of Chicago Stars
The Chicago Stars series, now spanning ten books, follows the players, coaches, and families tied to the team. It Had to Be You sets the stage as Phoebe Somerville, a glamorous New Yorker with zero sports knowledge, inherits the Stars and clashes with head coach Dan Calebow, sparking a romance as fiery as it is funny. Heaven, Texas (1995) tracks ex-quarterback Bobby Tom Denton and prim Gracie Snow in a small-town love story bursting with charm. Nobody’s Baby But Mine (1997) pairs genius physicist Jane Darlington with quarterback Cal Bonner in a hilarious yet poignant tale of opposites attracting. The latest, Simply the Best (2024), weaves a murder mystery into the romance between sports agent Brett Rivers and chocolatier Rory Garrett, proving Phillips’ knack for fresh twists.
The series shines through its themes of second chances, self-discovery, and the power of love to heal. Set against the vibrant backdrop of professional football, each book balances steamy encounters with emotional growth, wrapped in Phillips’ signature witty dialogue. From Chicago’s bustling stadiums to small-town Texas, the settings ground the stories in a vivid sense of place, making every romance feel larger than life.
Why Chicago Stars Resonates
Chicago Stars isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection. Phillips’ ability to craft flawed, relatable characters who find strength in love has earned her a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim, including four Romance Writers of America Favorite Book of the Year Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award. The series’ blend of sports and romance paved the way for the genre, influencing countless authors. Fans adore revisiting familiar characters across books, creating a cozy yet thrilling saga that feels like coming home.
Its lasting appeal lies in its universal themes—whether it’s overcoming insecurities or chasing dreams, readers see themselves in these stories. The mix of humor, heart, and a dash of gridiron grit keeps Chicago Stars a fan favorite, even decades after its debut.
- First Book: It Had to Be You (1994)
- Latest Book: Simply the Best (2024)
- Total Books: 10
- Awards: Multiple RITA Awards, including Best Romance for It Had to Be You and Nobody’s Baby But Mine
Ready to fall in love with the Chicago Stars? Grab It Had to Be You and kick off a romantic adventure that’s a guaranteed score!