Rachel Reid Delays ‘Unrivaled’ Release, Cites Parkinson’s and Fame

“Heated Rivalry” author Rachel Reid has announced a delay in the release of her next novel, “Unrivaled,” attributing the decision to both the challenges of newfound fame and the worsening of her Parkinson’s disease symptoms. The book, the third installment in her popular Game Changer series, is now expected to be released in June 2027, a significant shift from its initially planned fall 2026 release [Source: KRON4].

Impact of Fame and Health

Reid shared the news with fans via a video message on Instagram, explaining that the rapid changes in her life following the success of “Heated Rivalry” and “The Long Game” have impacted her ability to dedicate the necessary time and focus to writing. She emphasized her commitment to delivering the best possible book, stating, “There’s nothing more important to me than Unrivaled being the best book it can possibly be” [Source: SFGate].

Adding to the challenges, Reid disclosed that her Parkinson’s symptoms have been progressing, making the physical act of writing more demanding and slowing her progress [Source: The New York Times]. She initially received a Parkinson’s diagnosis in 2023, around the time director Jacob Tierney approached her about adapting her operate for television.

The Game Changer Series and HBO Adaptation

The Game Changer series, centered around the rivalry and burgeoning romance between hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, has garnered a significant following. “Heated Rivalry” and “The Long Game” were adapted into an HBO miniseries, originally developed for the Canadian streaming service Crave, which quickly became a cultural phenomenon and propelled Reid to literary stardom [Source: Facebook/The New York Times]. The series has been renewed for a second season and was the top-rated series on HBO Max in its first season.

Looking Ahead

Although the delay is disappointing for fans eagerly awaiting the conclusion of the Game Changer series, Reid’s decision reflects her dedication to her craft and her commitment to managing her health. The revised release date of June 2027 allows her the time needed to deliver a high-quality novel while navigating the complexities of her evolving circumstances.