Awesomeness TV has secured the rights to Racing Hearts, an upcoming YA novel by Ann Adams that’s set in the world of competitive rowing.
Racing Hearts is a coming-of-age romance that follows Olympic hopeful Katherine Parker, who is sent home to Berkeley after another failed race to work with a new coach, Adrian. Together, they challenge each other to overcome their limits, all while navigating the deepening feelings that grow between them. Racing Hearts will be published by Bantam Dell in spring of 2026.
Awesomeness TV, which is behind School Spirits on Paramount + and XO Kitty for Netflix, is looking to adapt the book into a movie for streaming. Tamara Chestna (Moxie, Something from Tiffany’s) will write while Lauren Miller Rogen, Jen Ray and Sophie Hoegh of LYLAS Pictures are producing with Awesomeness, which will also serve as the studio.
“I couldn’t put the book down and knew instantly Racing Hearts would be the perfect fit for Awesomeness’ YA audience,” said Shauna Phelan, Head of Live-Action Scripted Series and Film for Awesomeness and Nickelodeon. “We’re so excited to partner with Tamara and the talented creative team at LYLAS to bring this fresh, female-driven story to life.”
“I’m beyond thrilled to have Tamara, LYLAS Pictures, and Awesomeness working to bring my book to life on screen. I’ve been blown away by their passion, creativity, and vision–they’re truly the perfect team to capture the heart of this story,” added Adams.
Recently, the Gen Z-leaning Awesomeness TV — which is part of the Paramount portfolio — announced that it acquired the rights to That Friend for a TV series, the debut audiobook created by comedian Sabrina Brier. Awesomeness has also optioned Melissa de la Cruz’s best-selling book series Blue Bloods and is developing it as a TV series.
CAA, which represents Adams, Miller Rogen, and Jen Ray, brokered the deal. Adams is also represented by Folio Literary Management.
