Based on your book
by Elle Thorpe
X's and O's throws you into a whirlwind from the very first page. Our heroine, after a terrifying kidnapping, is inexplicably pulled into the orbit of the "Murder Squad," a secretive brotherhood of dangerous men who deal out their own brand of justice. Suddenly, she's navigating a world where one man believes she's his wife, another is drawn to her curves despite his grumpy exterior, and a third is a reformed pen pal killer. This isn't a gentle romance; it's a dark, high-stakes ride packed with suspense and a thrilling murder mystery that keeps you guessing. The tension is palpable, the romance unconventional and spicy, and the found family dynamic is twisted yet compelling. If you crave an intense "why choose" story with anti-heroes, a plus-size heroine, and a plot that doesn't shy away from the dark side, this is one to pick up. It's a full-throttle experience that will leave you wanting more.
If you were captivated by the dark, intense allure of X's and O's, you'll find plenty to love in our curated list. We looked for that thrilling "why choose" dynamic, where a strong heroine navigates complex relationships with multiple compelling men. Many of these recommendations share the same high-heat, suspenseful energy and the captivating blend of anti-heroes and found family. Whether you're drawn to the gritty mystery, the unconventional romance, or the thrill of dangerous men protecting their own, these books deliver a similar punch.
We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.
by Emily Rath
Like X's and O's, this is a high-heat sports romance featuring a 'why choose' dynamic. It focuses on a professional team setting where the female lead finds herself in a multi-partner relationship with athletes, balancing professional stakes with intense emotional connections.
by Jessa Wilder
This hockey-themed reverse harem romance mirrors the athletic intensity and forbidden tension found in Thorpe's work. It explores the complex dynamics of a woman navigating a relationship with multiple teammates while dealing with the pressures of the sports world.
by Kayla Grosse
Fans of the spicy, multi-POV sports elements in X's and O's will appreciate this holiday-themed hockey romance. It features a small-town setting and a high-heat 'why choose' dynamic that emphasizes both physical chemistry and emotional support.
by Angel Lawson and Samantha Rue
If you enjoyed the grittier, darker edges of Elle Thorpe's Saint View universe, this book offers a similar level of intensity. It features a complex 'why choose' dynamic set in a high-stakes academic environment with heavy themes of power and redemption.

Love to read on the go?
Explore Kindle e-readers and take your books with you.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This book captures the same 'outsider' energy and intense loyalty found in Thorpe's character groups. It is a gritty, emotional story about a girl reconnecting with a group of men from her past, blending heavy spice with deep character development.
For readers who enjoyed the lighter, more playful side of the sports harem dynamic in X's and O's, this book provides a fast-paced and witty alternative. It focuses on the chemistry between a team publicist and two star players.
by K.A. Knight
This is a quintessential dark reverse harem novel that matches the 'dangerous' vibe often present in Thorpe's series. It features a strong female lead who must navigate a relationship with several lethal men, emphasizing survival and shifting power dynamics.
While more isolated in its setting than a sports stadium, this book captures the intense, forbidden, and multi-love-interest atmosphere that fans of Thorpe crave. It explores complex family dynamics and the blurring of traditional relationship boundaries.
by C.M. Stunich
Similar to the way X's and O's explores the inner circle of a famous sports team, this book looks at the inner circle of a rock band. It features a 'why choose' dynamic where the heroine finds a sense of belonging and family with a group of talented men.
This book mirrors the protective and possessive energy of the male leads in Thorpe's writing. It features a capable heroine who enters into a multi-partner relationship with a group of men who are equally obsessed with her safety and her heart.

Not sure what they've already read?
Let them pick their next favorite with an Amazon Gift Card.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.