Author Rachel Reid has postponed the publication of her upcoming book 'Unrivaled' from September 2026 to June 1, 2027, citing worsening Parkinson's symptoms and a busy schedule following the success of the 'Heated Rivalry' TV adaptation. The novel is the seventh in her 'Game Changers' series and the third focused on characters Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Reid shared the news in an Instagram video on February 24, 2026, assuring fans the delay will result in a better book.
Rachel Reid, known for her 'Game Changers' hockey romance series, announced the delay of 'Unrivaled' in a video posted to Instagram on February 24, 2026. Originally set for September 29, 2026, the book will now release on June 1, 2027. Reid explained that recent life changes, including the overwhelming success of the HBO Max and Crave adaptation 'Heated Rivalry,' have reduced her writing time. 'My life has gotten very different in the last couple months, and although it's all good, it's also taken away my ability to have quality time to write,' she said.
Reid also addressed her health, noting a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease in August 2023, shortly before inquiries about adapting 'Heated Rivalry' began. Her symptoms have worsened, impacting her physically. 'When good things happen, sometimes the universe hands you some worse stuff to balance it out. For me, that’s been that my Parkinson's symptoms have gotten a bit worse, and it's made it difficult physically to write, so I'm definitely a lot slower,' Reid stated. She emphasized the importance of quality, adding, 'There’s nothing more important to me than 'Unrivaled' being the best book it can possibly be.'
'Unrivaled' continues the story of rivals-turned-lovers Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, now married and playing on the same team, facing backlash from some in the hockey world, including a podcast called Top Shelf and the #TakeBackHockey movement. It marks the final chapter for these characters in the series, which began with 'Game Changer' in 2018 and includes 'Heated Rivalry' (2019) and 'The Long Game' (2022). The TV series, starring Hudson Williams as Shane and Connor Storrie as Ilya, premiered on Crave and HBO Max in late 2025, becoming a hit and earning a second-season renewal.
Fans have responded supportively, with comments like 'Take all the time you need and take care of yourself' on Instagram. Reid teased upcoming announcements to 'soften the blow' and confirmed pre-orders will be honored. Her publisher, Harlequin Books, accommodated the extension.
