Rugby and romance novels don't seem the closest of bedfellows.

But Britain's Rugby Football Union (RFU) is looking to seduce new fans by teaming up with famous publisher Mills and Boon for a series of eight steamy touchline tales to hit the shelves next month.

The RFU announced this week the first title in the limited-edition International Billionaires series, The Prince's Waitress Wife, would launch on February 1 ahead of the 2009 Six Nations Championship.

One title would be published each month until September.

RFU licensing and marketing manager Jane Barron hoped the move would attract more people to rugby.

"Rugby has always been a game enjoyed by women," Barron said.

"A partnership with Mills and Boon is a fantastic way to encourage even more women and their families to get involved with the game."

The novels will be available from RFU merchandise shop The Rugby Store and bookshops.

Other titles in the series are; The French Tycoon's Pregnant Mistress, At The Argentinian Billionaire's Bidding, The Ruthless Billionaire's Virgin, The Italian Count's Defiant Bride, Blackmailed into the Greek Tycoon's Bed, The Virgin Secretary's Impossible Boss and The Sheik's Lovechild.

In a teaser of what readers can expect from the series, the RFU released an extract of The Prince's Waitress Wife in which a saucy encounter between the protagonists is caught on camera and shown on the big screen during a match.

"Her voice rose, her cheeks were scarlet, and her reluctant glance towards the stadium ended in a moan of disbelief," the extract said.

"`Oh God, I can't believe this, my hair is all over the place and my bottom looks huge, and - everyone is looking.'

"His eyes on the pitch, Prince Casper watched with cool detachment as his friend, the England captain, hit a post with a drop-goal attempt.

"'More importantly, you just cost England three points.'"

Felicia Field, partner of England rugby player James Haskell, said: "Romance and rugby are a natural combination for me. Every match has a fantastic atmosphere and it's a great day out with the girls."

Mills and Boon sales and marketing director Clare Somerville described the romance novels and rugby as "an irresistible combination".

"From the thrill of the pursuit, to the euphoria of realising one's goals (whether romantic or sporting)," Somerville said.

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