Author Rachel Reid has announced a delay in the release of her upcoming hockey romance novel, “Unrivaled,” due to the challenges of managing newfound fame and the progression of her Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Originally scheduled for a fall release, the book is now expected to hit shelves in June 2027, as revealed in a recent Instagram video message.
“Unrivaled” will mark the third installment in Reid’s popular “Game Changer” series, centered around the dynamic between hockey rivals and secret lovers Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. The first two books in the series, “Heated Rivalry” and “The Long Game,” have already been adapted into a successful Crave original series featuring Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, propelling Reid to literary stardom.
In her Instagram update, Reid expressed the impact of recent life changes on her writing process, emphasizing her commitment to delivering the best possible version of “Unrivaled.” She acknowledged the balancing act of experiencing positive developments alongside personal setbacks, particularly noting the physical challenges posed by the progression of her Parkinson’s symptoms, which were first diagnosed in 2023 around the time her work attracted interest for adaptation.
The screen adaptation of Reid’s work by director Jacob Tierney has garnered significant success, prompting a renewal for a second season on Crave and HBO Max, where it achieved top ratings during its initial run.
Despite facing hurdles, Reid remains dedicated to her craft and the evolving landscape of her literary career, navigating both the demands of her burgeoning fame and the realities of managing a chronic illness.