Story perspectives

Rachel Reid's 'Unrivaled': Love Amid Hockey's Backlash

1/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rachel Reid's forthcoming novel Unrivaled will be released on September 29, 2026, as the seventh Game Changers installment.
It continues the love story of hockey players Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander after their marriage.
The narrative examines public scrutiny and backlash from the hockey community, including the #TakeBackHockey movement.
The success of the Heated Rivalry series on HBO Max has built a dedicated fanbase driving anticipation for Unrivaled.

History

Historical Context

The #TakeBackHockey movement emerged in 2021, advocating for inclusivity and respect in hockey, particularly against homophobia. This followed a history of bullying incidents, such as Alyssa Wruble's experience in 2020, and ongoing issues of sexual misconduct within organizations like Hockey Canada. Rachel Reid's novel, *Unrivaled*, reflects these themes, highlighting the need for cultural transformation in the sport.

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Story summary

Rachel Reid's forthcoming novel Unrivaled will be released on September 29, 2026, as the seventh Game Changers installment.
It continues the love story of hockey players Ilya Rozanov and Shane Hollander after their marriage.
The narrative examines public scrutiny and backlash from the hockey community, including the #TakeBackHockey movement.
The success of the Heated Rivalry series on HBO Max has built a dedicated fanbase driving anticipation for Unrivaled.

1 / 2