“Heated Rivalry” author Rachel Reid is currently focused on completing the third installment in her popular “Game Changers” series, titled “Unrivaled.” This upcoming book marks the seventh entry in the series and the third centered around the love story of rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, who unexpectedly develop a romantic relationship. “Unrivaled” is scheduled to be published in September, but Reid admits that she has yet to finish writing it.
In preparation for the television adaptation of her work, which premiered on Crave TV in November, Reid aimed to complete as much of the book as possible before the show's debut. However, she did not meet her goal. To maintain her creative flow, she has been consciously trying to ignore the existence of the TV series during her writing process, as she fears it might influence the direction of the story she wants to tell.
The response to the “Heated Rivalry” television series has been incredibly enthusiastic, catapulting stars Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie to fame as they appear on late-night talk shows and even present at prestigious events like the Golden Globes. The popularity of the series has further heightened interest in Reid's books, particularly as the original characters and storyline resonated with a wide audience.
Readers were initially introduced to the complex dynamics of Shane and Ilya's relationship in “Heated Rivalry,” the second book in the “Game Changers” series. In this installment, the characters grapple with their fears about being in a same-sex relationship within the professional sports arena. Their struggles and growth form the basis for the first season of the Crave series, which was also distributed through HBO Max, culminating its first season on Boxing Day.
In “The Long Game,” the sixth book of the series that follows “Heated Rivalry,” Shane and Ilya again take center stage. In this narrative, they face significant external pressures stemming from their league as they navigate their relationship. While Reid initially intended for this book to wrap up their journey, her perspective shifted around the same time last year when she found herself reconsidering the characters. The ongoing development of the “Heated Rivalry” TV series likely sparked her creative thoughts about expanding their story further.
As “Unrivaled” gets underway, the couple finds themselves in a new chapter of their lives, having publicly declared their relationship. The narrative explores not only their romantic development but also how they deal with the world's reactions to their announcement. This new phase presents fresh challenges and opportunities for growth, deepening their story in ways that Reid is excited to explore.
Overall, the unfolding journey of Shane and Ilya has captivated readers, and Reid’s determination to deliver an authentic continuation reflects her commitment to the characters. As she works to complete “Unrivaled,” the anticipation for both the new book and the continued success of the television adaptation remains high.
