“Heated Rivalry ”Author Rachel Reid Teases the Next “Game Changers” Book, “Unrivaled”

Rachel Reid Fans Anticipate New Installment in Popular Hockey Romance Series

Renowned author Rachel Reid has captured the hearts of romance enthusiasts through her successful Game Changers series. Recently, during a Spotify event held in New York City on May 13, Reid provided eager fans with an exclusive glimpse into her forthcoming novel, “Unrivaled,” which is set to be released on June 1. The new book, which is the seventh in the series, continues the romantic saga of professional hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov.

Reid opened up about the evolution of Shane and Ilya’s relationship, noting that “Unrivaled” picks up directly where the previous installment, “The Long Game,” concluded. “It’s set in 2021, which is something I must keep reminding myself,” she said. In this new chapter, the couple begins their first season together on the same team, having recently tied the knot. Reid expressed her excitement about exploring this new phase in their lives, stating, “There are so many things that are brand new for them.”

The author assured fans that while the story involves new experiences, it will diverge from common romantic tropes. “I’m not going to drag Shane and Ilya through hell. That’s not the point of the book. They’ve been through enough,” Reid explained, promising a narrative that avoids excessive drama while still presenting challenges for the couple.

Significant threads in “Unrivaled” address the societal implications of two hockey players sharing a life both on and off the ice, as not everyone supports their marriage. “Not everybody loves that two hockey players are married to each other on the same team, but some people really love it,” Reid noted, emphasising a mixture of support and opposition that will arise in the storyline. She acknowledged that while the year is filled with brand new experiences for the couple, it will not be a smooth journey every step of the way.

Alongside her literary pursuits, Reid has recently celebrated the success of the television adaptation of her beloved “Heated Rivalry” novel. The series, featuring Connor Storrie as Ilya and Hudson Williams as Shane, has made waves since its premiere, with the second season scheduled for 2027. Reid expressed her admiration for the show’s community-building elements, observing how events and watch parties organically emerged as fans came together to celebrate the series. “It was really awesome to see,” she said, highlighting the safe spaces the adaptation has fostered among viewers.

Reid echoed her delight at the adaptation’s fidelity to the original material. She had initial concerns that the script would veer away from her narrative, as previous authors had experienced with their own adaptations. “When I first read the script and saw so much of my story and my dialogue on the page, I was blown away,” she reflected, appreciating how closely the show adhered to her vision.

The author is equally excited about the future of the Game Changers books, which remain available at various retailers. With “Unrivaled” available for preorder, readers can soon delve into the latest developments in Shane and Ilya’s journey.

As anticipation builds for Reid’s next release, her fans eagerly await what promises to be another heartfelt and engaging addition to a series that has already made a significant impact in the realm of sports romance. With her unique storytelling, Reid continues to redefine the representation of LGBTQ+ relationships in literature and beyond, solidifying her status as a key voice in contemporary romance.