Rachel Reid‘s Heated Rivalry became a TV series, which began airing on November 28, 2025. The hockey romance between two men, deftly adapted by Jacob Tierney, is the second book in the Game Changers Series. An original show from Crave, a Canadian streaming service, it has become an international juggernaut.
Here’s my review of the adaptation:
I’d read the Game Changers Series between 2020 and 2022. Heated Rivalry and The Long Game became my favorites of the books. Both these novels focus on the journey of hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. When I found out there would be an adaptation, I was so eager to see these characters jump off the page. I started watching on November 28, 2025 and the year ended on a great note, partially because of the show’s wonderful finale. Now that I’ve processed my initial reactions to the show and the resulting discussions, these are my general thoughts.
Cast: The, arguably, most famous couple from the book series is Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov (#Hollanov), respectively portrayed by Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie. Both actors are incredible at showing the characters’ strengths and vulnerabilities, within the tough sports environment where Shane and Ilya have built their careers. François Arnaud, as Scott Hunter, and Robbie Graham-Kuntz, as Kip Grady, provide a memorable balance of a more mature couple. These two also struggle with the pressures of forming and protecting their relationship. A spotlight should also be on the fantastic performances of other cast members, including Christina Chang, Ksenia Daniela Kharlamova, Nadine Bhabha, and Sophie Nélisse.
Music: Beautifully encapsulates Shane and Ilya’s turmoil, as well as their budding understanding of how to be together. Various pieces enhance the range of emotions, from disbelief, to anger, to despair, to abiding love. The original soundtrack, by Peter Peter, became available and I made sure to get a copy.
Story: Jacob Tierney crafted a strong adaptation from Rachel Reid’s solid foundation. Page-to-screen changes to events are complimentary, instead of being jarring and unnecessary. The story is dramatic and gripping, as Shane and Ilya consider the stakes of building and maintaining a relationship. Internal and external conflicts are navigated in believable and entertaining ways. There were a few times I spoke to the characters, even after having read the books and knowing what to expect.
Here’s my closer look at each episode:
Episode 1: This has a fantastic start. It showcases Ilya and Shane’s charm and stubbornness, perfectly setting the stage for some emotional shenanigans and heartache.
Episode 2: Several scenes make it clear that Ilya and Shane are more emotionally invested than they understand. The final images of Shane being distraught, typing and then erasing, “We didn’t even kiss” leaves angst that ripples through multiple episodes.
Episode 3: This time the spotlight is on Scott and Kip. As the main couple in Game Changers, the first novel in the series, they serve a pivotal role in the books and the TV show. They are an interesting contrast to Ilya and Shane, who have just begun the more complex part of their emotional journey. Scott and Kip’s struggle to create a balanced personal life, while having Scott maintain the stellar career he’s built, is poignantly portrayed.
Episode 4: There are several perfect moments, with the clubbing scene taking the crown. The golden transition, from t.A.T.u.’s “All The Things She Said” to Harrison’s version, crisply encapsulates the inner turmoil of both Ilya and Shane.
Episode 5: This is my second favorite episode of the show. Shane and Ilya push their emotional boundaries in all the right ways. Shane, after distancing himself from Ilya, does the hard work of figuring out who he is and what he really wants. Now much more certain of his identity, Shane takes the role of pursuing Ilya, reminding him of how great they can be together. Ilya’s tentative, until a powerful decision by Scott and Kip show what’s possible.
Episode 6: This is brilliant and it’s my absolute favorite episode of the season! There are so many beautiful moments, including Ilya and Shane having a sublime time at Shane’s cottage and the conversation with Shane’s parents. Shane and Ilya now have a more robust foundation. Filled with confidence, they firmly take the path that leads to a worthwhile relationship. The season ends on such an uplifting note, as they drive off into the sunset.
What’s the cultural impact?
While the series is incredibly entertaining, to me, one of the most important factors is the cultural impact. The books and show have sparked heartfelt conversations about sexual orientation, putting a spotlight on which relationships are seen as worth protecting, and the societal toxicity that makes it challenging to be part of the LGBTQIA+ community. Although the romance series focuses on the hockey world, that isn’t the only environment where someone could feel constrained, or worse. For some, this book and show represent ways to start the conversation that ends marginalization. I hope these candid discussions continue and, most of all, I hope they usher in long-lasting and positive changes.
In conclusion… 😉
If what I wrote piqued your interest, check out the Heated Rivalry trailer. The show has already been renewed for a second season. Not only that, a seventh book titled Unrivaled, is expected in Fall 2026.
Hope you enjoy the books and TV series!
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