Author's Hockey Romance Becomes Unforeseen Global Hit

Rachel Reid's "Heated Rivalry," a popular new-adult LGBTQ hockey romance, has experienced immense global success following its adaptation by HBO Max. Initially an independent release, the series garnered significant viewership, leading to a surge in demand for the source material. The book's audiobook saw a massive increase in listening figures.

Despite this widespread acclaim, Reid, 45, is also managing a recent diagnosis of young-onset Parkinson's disease, which she received in August 2023. This condition affects her motor control and can cause symptoms like brain fog, impacting her ability to type and write.

The success of "Heated Rivalry" has led to changes in Reid's schedule, moving from solitary writing to frequent public appearances. Her calendar has become demanding, a situation complicated by her role as a mother to two children and her health condition.

Consequently, the release of "Unrivaled," the seventh and final book in the Game Changers series, has been rescheduled from September 2026 to June 1, 2027. This delay aims to give Reid more time to perfect the story, focus on her health, and manage her current commitments.

Reid views this extra time as beneficial for "Unrivaled," ensuring it maintains the series' characteristic blend of happiness, romance, and sweetness, while concluding the story of Shane and Ilya with their happily ever after.