Lace up your skates and prepare to dive back into the world of “Heated Rivalry” as a new literary installment from author Rachel Reid is set to hit the shelves later this year. The upcoming novel, part of the Game Changer series published by Harlequin, is scheduled for release on September 29, 2026.
Titled “Unrivaled,” this seventh book in Reid’s popular hockey romance series delves back into the evolving relationship between two hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. No longer rivals, their love story takes center stage, building on the foundation laid in the previous books of the series.
The on-screen adaptation of “Heated Rivalry,” directed by Montreal filmmaker Jacob Tierney, made waves as the most successful Crave Original Series to date, captivating audiences with its portrayal of queer hockey romance. The lead actors, Hudson Williams from British Columbia and Connor Storrie from the United States, have quickly risen to stardom, even appearing at the 2026 Golden Globes.
Rachel Reid expressed her delight at the global appreciation for her representation of queer Canadian characters, describing the response as a pleasant surprise. She emphasized the importance of contributing to the growing collection of queer narratives with positive outcomes, citing the uplifting feedback she has received.
“Heated Rivalry” earned a spot on the Canada Reads 2026 longlist and has consistently topped bestseller lists in Canada, demonstrating its enduring popularity since its initial publication in 2019. The series has sold over 1.3 million copies in North America, with a confirmed second season of the television adaptation in the works.
As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Unrivaled” on September 29, which is currently open for pre-orders, the narrative continues to explore themes of love, growth, and perseverance within the world of professional hockey. The novel follows Shane and Ilya as they navigate new milestones in their personal and professional lives, all while remaining steadfast in their bond amidst the backdrop of the #TakeBackHockey movement.
In addition to “Unrivaled,” Reid’s collection includes six other novels, each delving into unique romantic pairings within the intense world of hockey, such as “Role Model,” “Tough Guy,” and “Common Goal.” With a dedicated fan base and ongoing enthusiasm for the series, the Game Changers universe shows no signs of slowing down.
