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Game Changers #4-6
Game Changers Volume 2
Common Goal
Veteran goaltender Eric Bennett has faced down some of the toughest shooters on the ice, but nothing prepared him for his latest challenge—life after hockey. It’s time to make some big changes, starting with finally dating men for the first time.
Graduate student Kyle Swift moved to New York nursing a broken heart. He’d sworn to find someone his own age to crush on (for once). Until he meets a gorgeous, distinguished silver fox hockey player. Despite their intense physical attraction, Kyle has no intention of getting emotionally involved. He’ll teach Eric a few tricks, have some mutually consensual fun, then walk away.
Eric is more than happy to learn anything Kyle brings to the table. And Kyle never expected their friends-with-benefits arrangement to leave him wanting more. Happily-ever-after might be staring them in the face, but it won’t happen if they’re too stubborn to come clean about their feelings.
Everything they both want is within reach… They just have to be brave enough to grab it.
Role Model
The hits just keep coming for Troy Barrett. Traded to the worst team in the league would be bad enough, but coming on the heels of a messy breakup and a recent scandal… Troy just wants to play hockey and be left alone. He doesn’t want to be in the news anymore, and he definitely doesn’t want to “work on his online presence” with the team’s peppy social media manager.
Harris Drover can tell standoffish Troy isn’t happy about the trade—anyone could tell, frankly, as he doesn’t exactly hide it well—but Harris doesn’t give up on people easily. Even when he’s developing a crush he’s sure is one-sided. And when he sees Troy’s smile finally crack through his grumpy exterior, well… That’s a man Harris couldn’t turn his back on if he wanted to.
Suddenly, Troy’s move to the new team feels like an opportunity—for Troy to embrace his true self, and for both men to surrender to their growing attraction. But indulging in each other behind closed doors is one thing, and for Troy, being in a public relationship with Harris will mean facing off with his fears, once and for all.
The Long Game
Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov have been seeing each other for ten years and have kept it secret. From friends, from family…from the league. If Shane wants to stay at the top of his game, what he and Ilya share has to remain secret. He loves Ilya, but what if going public ruins everything?
Ilya is sick of secrets. Shane has gotten so good at hiding his feelings, sometimes Ilya questions if they even exist. The closeness, the intimacy, even the risk that would come with being open about their relationship…Ilya wants it all.
It’s time for them to make the call and decide what’s most important—hockey or love.
Originally Published in 2020
Veteran goaltender Eric Bennett has faced down some of the toughest shooters on the ice, but nothing prepared him for his latest challenge—life after hockey. It’s time to make some big changes, starting with finally dating men for the first time.
Graduate student Kyle Swift moved to New York nursing a broken heart. He’d sworn to find someone his own age to crush on (for once). Until he meets a gorgeous, distinguished silver fox hockey player. Despite their intense physical attraction, Kyle has no intention of getting emotionally involved. He’ll teach Eric a few tricks, have some mutually consensual fun, then walk away.
Eric is more than happy to learn anything Kyle brings to the table. And Kyle never expected their friends-with-benefits arrangement to leave him wanting more. Happily-ever-after might be staring them in the face, but it won’t happen if they’re too stubborn to come clean about their feelings.
Everything they both want is within reach… They just have to be brave enough to grab it.
Role Model
The hits just keep coming for Troy Barrett. Traded to the worst team in the league would be bad enough, but coming on the heels of a messy breakup and a recent scandal… Troy just wants to play hockey and be left alone. He doesn’t want to be in the news anymore, and he definitely doesn’t want to “work on his online presence” with the team’s peppy social media manager.
Harris Drover can tell standoffish Troy isn’t happy about the trade—anyone could tell, frankly, as he doesn’t exactly hide it well—but Harris doesn’t give up on people easily. Even when he’s developing a crush he’s sure is one-sided. And when he sees Troy’s smile finally crack through his grumpy exterior, well… That’s a man Harris couldn’t turn his back on if he wanted to.
Suddenly, Troy’s move to the new team feels like an opportunity—for Troy to embrace his true self, and for both men to surrender to their growing attraction. But indulging in each other behind closed doors is one thing, and for Troy, being in a public relationship with Harris will mean facing off with his fears, once and for all.
The Long Game
Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov have been seeing each other for ten years and have kept it secret. From friends, from family…from the league. If Shane wants to stay at the top of his game, what he and Ilya share has to remain secret. He loves Ilya, but what if going public ruins everything?
Ilya is sick of secrets. Shane has gotten so good at hiding his feelings, sometimes Ilya questions if they even exist. The closeness, the intimacy, even the risk that would come with being open about their relationship…Ilya wants it all.
It’s time for them to make the call and decide what’s most important—hockey or love.
Originally Published in 2020
1098 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 25, 2024
About the author
Rachel Reid
20 books12.4k followersRachel Reid is the pen name of Rachelle Goguen. She chose it because it is much easier to say, spell and remember than Rachelle Goguen!
Rachel writes cute, romantic smut, mostly about hockey players. Her Game Changers m/m hockey romance series is available from Carina Press.
Rachel/Rachelle lives in Nova Scotia, Canada. She has always lived there, and it's looking like she probably always will. She has two boring degrees and two interesting kids.
Rachel writes cute, romantic smut, mostly about hockey players. Her Game Changers m/m hockey romance series is available from Carina Press.
Rachel/Rachelle lives in Nova Scotia, Canada. She has always lived there, and it's looking like she probably always will. She has two boring degrees and two interesting kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
February 8, 2026
Another brilliant book!
I loved that it centred on Kyle and Eric, who have been background characters in previous books.
Well, I say background, but no character feels like that, which is a testament to Rachel Reid’s writing.
This is also the first ‘age gap romance’ I’ve read.
I like how each story feels similar yet weighted so differently with all new stakes. Each book feeds off the events of the previous one as they’re happing at the same time. Brilliant stuff.
Yes there’s spice, but also so much heart.
I loved that it centred on Kyle and Eric, who have been background characters in previous books.
Well, I say background, but no character feels like that, which is a testament to Rachel Reid’s writing.
This is also the first ‘age gap romance’ I’ve read.
I like how each story feels similar yet weighted so differently with all new stakes. Each book feeds off the events of the previous one as they’re happing at the same time. Brilliant stuff.
Yes there’s spice, but also so much heart.
December 28, 2025
A beautiful end to the Game Changers series!! While I wasn't the hugest fan of book 4 - Common goal - I really, REALLY enjoyed both Role model and The long game. Shane and Ilya's long-awaited and much-earned HEA was so worth the wait and everything I could have wanted. These books tackle mental health, depression, therapy, toxic masculinity and rape culture in the NHL and more. They are also SPICY AF and feature relatable gay men being vulnerable about their feelings and openly expressing their love. I also really enjoyed the narration by Cooper North in book 4-6 for Ilya's character in these books too compared to the first three books that were narrated by Tor Thom who didn't even know how to pronounce toque. Overall a great read if you've finished the Heated Rivalry show and have a giant book hang over!
February 1, 2026
using just for common goal
2.5
the ending felt rushed and underwhelming. we never got to see them as an actual couple. I hate that Eric bought the bar at the same time they became a couple. he was so scared of their age gap and he suddenly decides it's a good idea to become his boyfriend and business partner/boss? mixing that business dynamic with a new relationship is not a good idea. why couldn't Eric have bought the bar later as an anniversary present or something?
I didn't understand why Eric changed his mind on the age gap thing. he's completely against them dating and then he retires and decides he's sad and goes to make up with Kyle that same night. what changed? why do you want a relationship now when you didn't a week ago? it's not like he got any new information or saw Kyle in a different light
I wanted more from Kyle's crush on kip. he starts casually seeing Eric and immediately gets over it. there's no realization that he and kip would actually be a bad fit or anything. he hasn't even decided he likes Eric romantically at that point. he's just suddenly over it
it also felt like we never got closure on Kyle's bad relationship with the guy in Vermont. he was basically groomed and taken advantage of and a sex tape was published without his permission and he was outed when he was 18. and he blames himself for all of this and has a lot of guilt and feels like a bad person. people tell him it wasn't his fault but he never seems to believe it and then it's never brought up again
this had promise and some of the middle parts were cute. I liked their little dates and that they had actual shared interests in art and history and travel. I liked Kyle helping Eric navigate firsts (even though we never got a Kyle top scene despite it being mentioned constantly). I just wish the ending had followed through on that promise
as always, I live for the small Ilya crumbs other game changers books provide
2.5
the ending felt rushed and underwhelming. we never got to see them as an actual couple. I hate that Eric bought the bar at the same time they became a couple. he was so scared of their age gap and he suddenly decides it's a good idea to become his boyfriend and business partner/boss? mixing that business dynamic with a new relationship is not a good idea. why couldn't Eric have bought the bar later as an anniversary present or something?
I didn't understand why Eric changed his mind on the age gap thing. he's completely against them dating and then he retires and decides he's sad and goes to make up with Kyle that same night. what changed? why do you want a relationship now when you didn't a week ago? it's not like he got any new information or saw Kyle in a different light
I wanted more from Kyle's crush on kip. he starts casually seeing Eric and immediately gets over it. there's no realization that he and kip would actually be a bad fit or anything. he hasn't even decided he likes Eric romantically at that point. he's just suddenly over it
it also felt like we never got closure on Kyle's bad relationship with the guy in Vermont. he was basically groomed and taken advantage of and a sex tape was published without his permission and he was outed when he was 18. and he blames himself for all of this and has a lot of guilt and feels like a bad person. people tell him it wasn't his fault but he never seems to believe it and then it's never brought up again
this had promise and some of the middle parts were cute. I liked their little dates and that they had actual shared interests in art and history and travel. I liked Kyle helping Eric navigate firsts (even though we never got a Kyle top scene despite it being mentioned constantly). I just wish the ending had followed through on that promise
as always, I live for the small Ilya crumbs other game changers books provide
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2026
Common Goal was cute, but Role Model and The Long Game were both really good stories that had more focus on homophobia, toxic masculinity, and rape culture in hockey, and even a brief mention of transphobia. While some of the books in the series have shown rather ideal situations where queer hockey players are generally accepted when they come out, The Long Game deals with negative repercussions for Shane and Ilya because of their more complicated situation as rivals, deepening the stress and bringing more of a story about mental health. We learn more about Ilya’s struggles and see him and Shane fighting, all while it becomes more and more clear why these two balance each other out so well and need to be together. Obsessed.
April 10, 2026
Book 4: Common goal (Kyle & Eric)⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 5: Role model (Troy & Harris)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 6: Long game (Ilya & Shane)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I never thought I’d be such a sucker for smutty, gay hockey romances, but here I am, six books in and completely obsessed with Ilya and Shane. The Long Game shows a different, more vulnerable side of Ilya that makes him feel more real and relatable, while still keeping the humor that makes him so great. I can’t get enough of their story, and I’m already looking forward to the next installment coming out in June!
Book 5: Role model (Troy & Harris)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 6: Long game (Ilya & Shane)⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I never thought I’d be such a sucker for smutty, gay hockey romances, but here I am, six books in and completely obsessed with Ilya and Shane. The Long Game shows a different, more vulnerable side of Ilya that makes him feel more real and relatable, while still keeping the humor that makes him so great. I can’t get enough of their story, and I’m already looking forward to the next installment coming out in June!
December 27, 2025
lowkey couldn’t wait for S2
December 30, 2025
Yes, I went ahead and finished volume 2 as well.
The 4th book, Common Goal is probably the worst of the lot. There was no real conflict in it. Like the other books, the conflict arises because of some form of trauma - the cute bartender has a stormy past dating older men and the cute older guy thinks he's too old to date, etc. Unlike the other books, it didn't feel very organic.
Role Model fares much better. The characters work and the conflict feels natural as well. It's also a nice set-up for the next and last book where we finally get back to Shane and Ilya. The Long Game, continues the story of our now very famous pair, and is potentially the material behind season 2 of the Crave Original series. I liked that we revisited them and had some realistic progress on their stories. I especially loved how Ilya's mental health struggles were written. There was no magical cure for his depression, and he instead continued to seek help even after the "happy" ending.
Overall, this was a fun and distracting way to spend the holidays. I might even rewatch the series someday to see how reading the books has changed my perception. I'm definitely tuning in to season 2 and perhaps anything more that Rachel Reid decides to write about this duo.
The 4th book, Common Goal is probably the worst of the lot. There was no real conflict in it. Like the other books, the conflict arises because of some form of trauma - the cute bartender has a stormy past dating older men and the cute older guy thinks he's too old to date, etc. Unlike the other books, it didn't feel very organic.
Role Model fares much better. The characters work and the conflict feels natural as well. It's also a nice set-up for the next and last book where we finally get back to Shane and Ilya. The Long Game, continues the story of our now very famous pair, and is potentially the material behind season 2 of the Crave Original series. I liked that we revisited them and had some realistic progress on their stories. I especially loved how Ilya's mental health struggles were written. There was no magical cure for his depression, and he instead continued to seek help even after the "happy" ending.
Overall, this was a fun and distracting way to spend the holidays. I might even rewatch the series someday to see how reading the books has changed my perception. I'm definitely tuning in to season 2 and perhaps anything more that Rachel Reid decides to write about this duo.
January 3, 2026
These books are crack, of course I’ve read all 6
January 7, 2026
Realmente me gustaría que Rachel le cambiara la portada así dejo de quedar como una pajera
January 8, 2026
2026: 4.25 Overall
3.75, 4.25, 4.5 respectively
The last two are the best for sure
3.75, 4.25, 4.5 respectively
The last two are the best for sure
January 12, 2026
gay hockey players, whats not to love
January 15, 2026
yes these ones too…
January 18, 2026
This is easier than logging all three books. I have shamelessly loved this series. I am so excited to see how this gets adapted to TV
February 4, 2026
Banger
Read
December 31, 2025Common Goal 2.5/5
Role Model 4.5/5
The Long Game 4.5/5
Role Model 4.5/5
The Long Game 4.5/5
February 23, 2026
Audible: I can’t belive I’ve got to wait till September to hear how their story ends.
Tree pointed out Illya’s Russian accent was poor. I was just glad that the guy reading the book did ok so could have spoilt it. I liked the talk in the “long game” about how the secret relationship was effecting Illya and Shane. That Illya sort help from a psychiatrist and the issues they chose to challenge. I was disappointed in Shane’s team when his secret was revealed and how fast they jumped to conclusions.
I also enjoyed “Role Model”s events being revisited in “Long game” with the two different sets of characters.
“Common Goal” gave us a discovery story and lots of fun adventuring.
Tree pointed out Illya’s Russian accent was poor. I was just glad that the guy reading the book did ok so could have spoilt it. I liked the talk in the “long game” about how the secret relationship was effecting Illya and Shane. That Illya sort help from a psychiatrist and the issues they chose to challenge. I was disappointed in Shane’s team when his secret was revealed and how fast they jumped to conclusions.
I also enjoyed “Role Model”s events being revisited in “Long game” with the two different sets of characters.
“Common Goal” gave us a discovery story and lots of fun adventuring.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2026
Must Read…Worth the Hype…Worth HBO-Max series…!!
I must confess, I prefer the original artsy cover art over the salacious photos. Never would have been able to get past the initial cover if these covers had blanketed books because the suggestive nature implies a single focus and audience. However, these books far surpass the salacious cover’s marketing them to other audiences. Make no mistake, these books are romances, sports romances, but definitely romances rich in all the tropes of the genre.
I will start confessing that I have been late to the game of Rachel Reids’s ice hockey arena, especially since she first began writing this series in 2019. However, never too late to become a fan of these ice gladiators in their arenas. Incredible cast/team of characters exposing the hidden conflicts of maintaining a duality of roles required by those who perform under the spotlight for fans. These sports romances are a genre within a genre. What captures readers is the behind-the-curtain discovery of this world of professional athletes, beyond the spotlight.
To be a homosexual in a world, in which homophobic slurs are spewed on ice in every game, must be nearly impossible to accept, yet this is sadly the norm in many locker rooms in many sports. Slowly, society is evolving largely because of information and cultural shifts occurring. Reid’s books push in the best of ways by showcasing the unconditional surrender of love, of love’s sharing and strengthening power.
In this volume are 3 separate, yet wonderfully connected stories. First story begins with one older, disciplined, battered body player at the end of his career, following an amicable divorce. Lonely, almost lost as changes surround him, this Harvard educated goalie, begins to frequent a bar, frequented by an athlete he admires. This gay bar provides a sort of safe place where he can escape. Even though he does not drink,he is charmed by a polyglot, a student of ancient classics, who is a master bartender of mocktails. And suddenly, the ever disciplined and often reticent Eric realizes why his marriage had failed as his attraction to the effusive and entertaining Kyle intensifies. Breaking stereotypes and answering questions occur naturally as Kyle introduces and guides the older, inexperienced Eric in their relationship, a relationship so unfamiliar and exciting that Eric’s guilt overwhelms him fearing he is stealing the future of this much younger talented Kyle.
The second story begins with Troy, a closeted gay athlete who has been traded from larger metropolitan Montreal to smaller market Ottawa. Why the transfer? Troy’s former best friend and teammate has been accused of sexual misconduct by multiple women. Because Troy knows his friend or thought he did, he heeds the words of the victims and makes public statements that show his belief in these women who have been vilified by many and nearly silenced by NHL commissioner. Although he initially feels depressed, abandoned, and lonely, Troy is befriended by the openly rainbow-pinned adorned team media communications director, Harris. Great story with amazing characters.the world should have more people like Harris. Whereas Troy has been raised by a coarse, homophobic, misogynistic father who betrayed his wife, abandoning her for a younger model, Harris has been raised on an apple farm by a large, loving family, fully accepting and protective of him, proud of him, grateful for him. Hard not smile at Harris’ non stop jibber jabbering optimism. As Harris builds up positive images of Troy on social media, the hidden, suppressed Troy emerges trusting Harris and discovering a friendship that deepens in an undeniable love.
Final story is the best because 2 super stars in NHL, Stanley Cup Champions, captains on opposing teams, face the toughest personal and professional challenges in their lives. While Shane has openly acknowledged his identity as gay, his partner Ilya, a Russian immigrant with a womanizer history, has remained hushed. Ilya’s wit, his banter, his spontaneity, and constant perception amuse and delight readers. Their relationship has endured for over a decade becoming exclusive and private/secretive in the last 3 years. This love story and sports story covers the season in a race for play offs. So much to admire about these 2 captains as professionals especially the personal sacrifices they have made. Competitive, compassionate, and competent, these 2 leaders navigate the NHL and their arenas and locker rooms never compromising professional demands. Priceless scene where these captains babysit a teammate’s family and the twin daughters perform a wedding ceremony. Impossible not to root for and admire these 2 leaders who have been in love for the long game.
Why is Rachel Reid becoming so well-ranked on every reading list and so widely-read by ever-widening group? … Why, because her characters leap from the page. Readers will connect with them and enjoy their banter, their conflicts, dilemmas, and relationships. Really great read. And if you are not a sports fan, you just might become a closeted hockey fan.
I must confess, I prefer the original artsy cover art over the salacious photos. Never would have been able to get past the initial cover if these covers had blanketed books because the suggestive nature implies a single focus and audience. However, these books far surpass the salacious cover’s marketing them to other audiences. Make no mistake, these books are romances, sports romances, but definitely romances rich in all the tropes of the genre.
I will start confessing that I have been late to the game of Rachel Reids’s ice hockey arena, especially since she first began writing this series in 2019. However, never too late to become a fan of these ice gladiators in their arenas. Incredible cast/team of characters exposing the hidden conflicts of maintaining a duality of roles required by those who perform under the spotlight for fans. These sports romances are a genre within a genre. What captures readers is the behind-the-curtain discovery of this world of professional athletes, beyond the spotlight.
To be a homosexual in a world, in which homophobic slurs are spewed on ice in every game, must be nearly impossible to accept, yet this is sadly the norm in many locker rooms in many sports. Slowly, society is evolving largely because of information and cultural shifts occurring. Reid’s books push in the best of ways by showcasing the unconditional surrender of love, of love’s sharing and strengthening power.
In this volume are 3 separate, yet wonderfully connected stories. First story begins with one older, disciplined, battered body player at the end of his career, following an amicable divorce. Lonely, almost lost as changes surround him, this Harvard educated goalie, begins to frequent a bar, frequented by an athlete he admires. This gay bar provides a sort of safe place where he can escape. Even though he does not drink,he is charmed by a polyglot, a student of ancient classics, who is a master bartender of mocktails. And suddenly, the ever disciplined and often reticent Eric realizes why his marriage had failed as his attraction to the effusive and entertaining Kyle intensifies. Breaking stereotypes and answering questions occur naturally as Kyle introduces and guides the older, inexperienced Eric in their relationship, a relationship so unfamiliar and exciting that Eric’s guilt overwhelms him fearing he is stealing the future of this much younger talented Kyle.
The second story begins with Troy, a closeted gay athlete who has been traded from larger metropolitan Montreal to smaller market Ottawa. Why the transfer? Troy’s former best friend and teammate has been accused of sexual misconduct by multiple women. Because Troy knows his friend or thought he did, he heeds the words of the victims and makes public statements that show his belief in these women who have been vilified by many and nearly silenced by NHL commissioner. Although he initially feels depressed, abandoned, and lonely, Troy is befriended by the openly rainbow-pinned adorned team media communications director, Harris. Great story with amazing characters.the world should have more people like Harris. Whereas Troy has been raised by a coarse, homophobic, misogynistic father who betrayed his wife, abandoning her for a younger model, Harris has been raised on an apple farm by a large, loving family, fully accepting and protective of him, proud of him, grateful for him. Hard not smile at Harris’ non stop jibber jabbering optimism. As Harris builds up positive images of Troy on social media, the hidden, suppressed Troy emerges trusting Harris and discovering a friendship that deepens in an undeniable love.
Final story is the best because 2 super stars in NHL, Stanley Cup Champions, captains on opposing teams, face the toughest personal and professional challenges in their lives. While Shane has openly acknowledged his identity as gay, his partner Ilya, a Russian immigrant with a womanizer history, has remained hushed. Ilya’s wit, his banter, his spontaneity, and constant perception amuse and delight readers. Their relationship has endured for over a decade becoming exclusive and private/secretive in the last 3 years. This love story and sports story covers the season in a race for play offs. So much to admire about these 2 captains as professionals especially the personal sacrifices they have made. Competitive, compassionate, and competent, these 2 leaders navigate the NHL and their arenas and locker rooms never compromising professional demands. Priceless scene where these captains babysit a teammate’s family and the twin daughters perform a wedding ceremony. Impossible not to root for and admire these 2 leaders who have been in love for the long game.
Why is Rachel Reid becoming so well-ranked on every reading list and so widely-read by ever-widening group? … Why, because her characters leap from the page. Readers will connect with them and enjoy their banter, their conflicts, dilemmas, and relationships. Really great read. And if you are not a sports fan, you just might become a closeted hockey fan.
April 19, 2026
4.75⭐
Overall, I really loved these. I feel like the further it gets into the book series, the better the books get. I love that they have serious topics intertwined into the story of the couples. I understand that these books are written by a woman, and I am interested in what gay men have to say about them, because I have been seeing the discourse online about how straight women are viewing them and sexualizing gay men and also shutting out gay men out of these spaces when it comes to queer men relationship books and other media (which is wrong). Anyway, loved the books.
Also, can I just saw that I adore Ilya more than any one else in this entire series. I love how he's just everyone's go-to for their queerness. Fantastic. He's amazing.
Common Goal 4.5⭐
I had so much fun reading this. I know the age gap is quite big, but they're both adults, met as adults, so it didn't bother me. I thought the navigating of that and then Eric being able to explore the mlm side of his bisexuality was such a great and beautiful story. I thought it was also such a good pick up from the last book in the first volume.
Role Model 4.75⭐
This one really got me. I think at the core of it, the SA discussion was important and needed, and I appreciate that they had Troy stop being friends with his best friend over it, and he learned and grew as a person as a result of that friend breakup. I like that you can see the other side of why famous people may not be supportive of serious topics online because they're being threatened/pressured to not do so. In this, they went against "the man" and did what they thought was right anyway. But I just appreciate how much this was explored in addition to this gay man really fully accepting himself, because sometimes we need these stories too.
The Long Game 5⭐
Genuinely obsessed. Not only are Ilya and Shane my favorite couple from the entire series so far, I just quite literally could not be a bigger fan of Ilya than I already am. He is so soft and so sweet and ooey gooey. They are not perfect, but they are perfect for each other, if that makes any sense at all. I love that they explored depression in this and how he may be like how his mom was. The trauma of his father also contributes, I feel. And this was covered in the book. He gets therapy, is open to taking medication, and I think this is SO important from someone not only from his cultural background (Russian) but as a man who also plays sports. Therapy and medication for mental health is often viewed as unmanly and it's generally stigmatized otherwise, so the fact that him getting help was seen as normal and a good thing means absolutely so much to me.
Overall, I really loved these. I feel like the further it gets into the book series, the better the books get. I love that they have serious topics intertwined into the story of the couples. I understand that these books are written by a woman, and I am interested in what gay men have to say about them, because I have been seeing the discourse online about how straight women are viewing them and sexualizing gay men and also shutting out gay men out of these spaces when it comes to queer men relationship books and other media (which is wrong). Anyway, loved the books.
Also, can I just saw that I adore Ilya more than any one else in this entire series. I love how he's just everyone's go-to for their queerness. Fantastic. He's amazing.
Common Goal 4.5⭐
I had so much fun reading this. I know the age gap is quite big, but they're both adults, met as adults, so it didn't bother me. I thought the navigating of that and then Eric being able to explore the mlm side of his bisexuality was such a great and beautiful story. I thought it was also such a good pick up from the last book in the first volume.
Role Model 4.75⭐
This one really got me. I think at the core of it, the SA discussion was important and needed, and I appreciate that they had Troy stop being friends with his best friend over it, and he learned and grew as a person as a result of that friend breakup. I like that you can see the other side of why famous people may not be supportive of serious topics online because they're being threatened/pressured to not do so. In this, they went against "the man" and did what they thought was right anyway. But I just appreciate how much this was explored in addition to this gay man really fully accepting himself, because sometimes we need these stories too.
The Long Game 5⭐
Genuinely obsessed. Not only are Ilya and Shane my favorite couple from the entire series so far, I just quite literally could not be a bigger fan of Ilya than I already am. He is so soft and so sweet and ooey gooey. They are not perfect, but they are perfect for each other, if that makes any sense at all. I love that they explored depression in this and how he may be like how his mom was. The trauma of his father also contributes, I feel. And this was covered in the book. He gets therapy, is open to taking medication, and I think this is SO important from someone not only from his cultural background (Russian) but as a man who also plays sports. Therapy and medication for mental health is often viewed as unmanly and it's generally stigmatized otherwise, so the fact that him getting help was seen as normal and a good thing means absolutely so much to me.
April 1, 2026
Series That Still Has Me Hooked
Common Goal by Rachel Reid was honestly my least favorite of the series. Coming off the high of Tough Guy, this one just felt lackluster. I expected Kyle to be way more sassy, way more in the culture, able to clock a queen and carry that energy, and instead he felt tepid the entire time. The vernacular wasn’t there, the personality felt muted, and that was a huge letdown. Eric being an older baby queen was fine, but his internal conflict dragged on way too long. There were easily six chapters that could’ve been cut. And the gay club? It was giving straight bar. The dynamics of that space were not fully realized at all, especially with Kyle being a bartender and somehow only triggering two moments of jealousy. That alone didn’t make sense. The whole thing just felt like a missed opportunity with messy execution and not enough payoff.
Role Model by Rachel Reid completely saved the series for me. This book was such a breath of fresh air after Common Goal. Troy and Harris were adorable, and just genuinely easy to root for. I loved the workplace romance, the tension mixed with understanding, and the sweet softness that came from their dynamic. And the fur babies? Obsessed. The switch dynamic in their love worked perfectly with the prose, and it felt like a return to the balance that makes the author good. I also appreciated getting to see the other side of hockey, not just acceptance but the lack of it, which added a layer of realism.
The Long Game by Rachel Reid was everything I needed to see from Shane and Ilya. It showed that love isn’t perfect, that even strong couples fight and struggle, and that life will always throws unexpected challenges your way. What matters is choosing each other anyway. The pushback they faced, especially from higher ups in the NHL, was frustrating but real, and it highlighted how far society still has to go. I loved seeing their life together, the domestic moments, the dog… This book did such a beautiful job of expanding their story while setting up what’s to come.
I’m honestly so excited for book seven. But I’m glad to wait for the finale of the Game Changers series because I need a minute to believe that there is still more story.
Common Goal by Rachel Reid was honestly my least favorite of the series. Coming off the high of Tough Guy, this one just felt lackluster. I expected Kyle to be way more sassy, way more in the culture, able to clock a queen and carry that energy, and instead he felt tepid the entire time. The vernacular wasn’t there, the personality felt muted, and that was a huge letdown. Eric being an older baby queen was fine, but his internal conflict dragged on way too long. There were easily six chapters that could’ve been cut. And the gay club? It was giving straight bar. The dynamics of that space were not fully realized at all, especially with Kyle being a bartender and somehow only triggering two moments of jealousy. That alone didn’t make sense. The whole thing just felt like a missed opportunity with messy execution and not enough payoff.
Role Model by Rachel Reid completely saved the series for me. This book was such a breath of fresh air after Common Goal. Troy and Harris were adorable, and just genuinely easy to root for. I loved the workplace romance, the tension mixed with understanding, and the sweet softness that came from their dynamic. And the fur babies? Obsessed. The switch dynamic in their love worked perfectly with the prose, and it felt like a return to the balance that makes the author good. I also appreciated getting to see the other side of hockey, not just acceptance but the lack of it, which added a layer of realism.
The Long Game by Rachel Reid was everything I needed to see from Shane and Ilya. It showed that love isn’t perfect, that even strong couples fight and struggle, and that life will always throws unexpected challenges your way. What matters is choosing each other anyway. The pushback they faced, especially from higher ups in the NHL, was frustrating but real, and it highlighted how far society still has to go. I loved seeing their life together, the domestic moments, the dog… This book did such a beautiful job of expanding their story while setting up what’s to come.
I’m honestly so excited for book seven. But I’m glad to wait for the finale of the Game Changers series because I need a minute to believe that there is still more story.
April 4, 2026
Overall 4.75 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Common Goal
3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This improves on a reread but still has some flaws the others in the series don’t have. I felt like this couple didn’t have as good an introduction in previous books to draw you in. Kyle is frustrating, the whole I wish the guy I knew for years but didn’t shoot my shot with is now with someone else and I’m salty is incredibly unattractive. He gets better but he acts young and carefree when trying to show an older guy that he is a relationship possibility. Eric is fine but spends the whole time talking about how he’s old. Yes, at 41 he is the oldest main character in the series but calm down. He’s divorced so it’s a second chance at love and exploring dating men for the first time and he could calm down.
Role Model
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is one of the few books that have made me stay up late kicking my feet at how utterly sweet it is. I adored Troy and Harris. This was exactly what I needed to read and I’m obsessed. Troy dealing with his internalised homophobia and the fall out of being tied to a terrible guy is treated with care. Harris has a level of insecurity that he covers with being an absolute sweetheart but in a way that makes you want to wrap him in a hug. They both think they aren’t worth the other which is such a lovely chance for growth that I loved.
The Long Game
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The raw emotions in this punched me in the guts. If Heated Rivalry was Shane’s book this one is definitely Ilya’s. The way he tries to be so strong for everyone while he is hurting and while people are hurting him without realising is devastating but in the best way. I honestly couldn’t put this down and got angry when I had to stop to do work it’s that good. Shane has to do some emotional work to realise what Ilya has done to make the relationship work. Ilya also starts to do the internal work and love that he finds a Russian therapist. Ilya getting a dog and treating her better than some people treat their babies is so on brand. I hate the Montreal Voyagers so much but the Ottawa Centaurs are the best team ever. I almost started supporting the real life Ottawa team (but then realised they are nothing like the fictional ones) luckily there is the PWHL to meet real world hockey joy.
Common Goal
3 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This improves on a reread but still has some flaws the others in the series don’t have. I felt like this couple didn’t have as good an introduction in previous books to draw you in. Kyle is frustrating, the whole I wish the guy I knew for years but didn’t shoot my shot with is now with someone else and I’m salty is incredibly unattractive. He gets better but he acts young and carefree when trying to show an older guy that he is a relationship possibility. Eric is fine but spends the whole time talking about how he’s old. Yes, at 41 he is the oldest main character in the series but calm down. He’s divorced so it’s a second chance at love and exploring dating men for the first time and he could calm down.
Role Model
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is one of the few books that have made me stay up late kicking my feet at how utterly sweet it is. I adored Troy and Harris. This was exactly what I needed to read and I’m obsessed. Troy dealing with his internalised homophobia and the fall out of being tied to a terrible guy is treated with care. Harris has a level of insecurity that he covers with being an absolute sweetheart but in a way that makes you want to wrap him in a hug. They both think they aren’t worth the other which is such a lovely chance for growth that I loved.
The Long Game
5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The raw emotions in this punched me in the guts. If Heated Rivalry was Shane’s book this one is definitely Ilya’s. The way he tries to be so strong for everyone while he is hurting and while people are hurting him without realising is devastating but in the best way. I honestly couldn’t put this down and got angry when I had to stop to do work it’s that good. Shane has to do some emotional work to realise what Ilya has done to make the relationship work. Ilya also starts to do the internal work and love that he finds a Russian therapist. Ilya getting a dog and treating her better than some people treat their babies is so on brand. I hate the Montreal Voyagers so much but the Ottawa Centaurs are the best team ever. I almost started supporting the real life Ottawa team (but then realised they are nothing like the fictional ones) luckily there is the PWHL to meet real world hockey joy.
April 2, 2026
3.5 stars (rounded up) . Rachel Reid’s Game Changers Volume 2 ended up being a real mixed bag for me, where the highs are very high, but the lows are oddly forgettable.
Common Goal barely left an impression. It’s not that it was actively bad, but a month on, I genuinely struggled to recall any of the story. Definitely the weakest of the 6 books.
Role Model, on the other hand, was outstanding. Book 5 of a series and TBH I felt it was good as book 2 Heated Rivalry. The characterisation felt layered and authentic, and the emotional growth was handled with care and nuance. Watching Troy Barrett evolve, awkwardly and imperfectly, made the story feel grounded and deeply satisfying. It’s the strongest of the three.
Then there’s The Long Game, which is clearly the emotional anchor of the trilogy, bringing back Shane and Ilya and continuing their “forbidden love” storyline. I can see why this is the book many readers come for, and there’s a lot to enjoy in revisiting them. That said, I didn’t find it quite as strong as Role Model. It leans heavily on the investment built in Heated Rivalry, and while it delivers genuinely tender and hard-hitting moments, I felt that it was not as good as book 2 or book 5.
What The Long Game does do well, though, is refuse to soften the reality of its setting. The depiction of a homophobic hockey culture remains uncomfortably present. I also appreciated the inclusion of mental health struggles; Ilya's depression and Shane's emerging disordered eating as a control issue, which added complexity and weight to the romance, even if at times it made the story feel heavier than expected. And to Reid’s credit, she consistently weaves in banter and humour to leaven the angst, which keeps the books engaging even at their most intense.
Overall, this trilogy is uneven but definitely worth the read. One of these days I will get subscription to Crave to see if the TV show lives up to the books 😁
Common Goal barely left an impression. It’s not that it was actively bad, but a month on, I genuinely struggled to recall any of the story. Definitely the weakest of the 6 books.
Role Model, on the other hand, was outstanding. Book 5 of a series and TBH I felt it was good as book 2 Heated Rivalry. The characterisation felt layered and authentic, and the emotional growth was handled with care and nuance. Watching Troy Barrett evolve, awkwardly and imperfectly, made the story feel grounded and deeply satisfying. It’s the strongest of the three.
Then there’s The Long Game, which is clearly the emotional anchor of the trilogy, bringing back Shane and Ilya and continuing their “forbidden love” storyline. I can see why this is the book many readers come for, and there’s a lot to enjoy in revisiting them. That said, I didn’t find it quite as strong as Role Model. It leans heavily on the investment built in Heated Rivalry, and while it delivers genuinely tender and hard-hitting moments, I felt that it was not as good as book 2 or book 5.
What The Long Game does do well, though, is refuse to soften the reality of its setting. The depiction of a homophobic hockey culture remains uncomfortably present. I also appreciated the inclusion of mental health struggles; Ilya's depression and Shane's emerging disordered eating as a control issue, which added complexity and weight to the romance, even if at times it made the story feel heavier than expected. And to Reid’s credit, she consistently weaves in banter and humour to leaven the angst, which keeps the books engaging even at their most intense.
Overall, this trilogy is uneven but definitely worth the read. One of these days I will get subscription to Crave to see if the TV show lives up to the books 😁
January 25, 2026
Common Goal:
I didn't love this book as much as the previous few as it was a little slower paced with more angst (living in denial). The characters were brilliant (once again) and the story well put together with plenty of steam, just less swoony than the previous books in the series. Maybe the bar has been set very high now!
Role Model:
Outside of Scott & Kip and Shane & Ilya, I think Troy and Harris are my next favourite couple in this universe. I just adore how hopeless Troy is against Harris' charms and how clueless Harris is about how wonderful he is. I think that anyone wanting to get a complete picture of the Shane & Ilya story really needs to read this book too as there is a fair bit of Ilya's character at play in this storyline. And it certainly informs TLG.
The Long Game:
I strongly, STRONGLY encourage all readers to read all the preceding books in this series before going into this one. This book is deep and emotional and readers will only get the full impact if they've been on the whole journey. And it's worth it.
This story is wonderful and sad and uplifting and beautiful. As someone with depression, I highly value Rachel's depiction of Ilya's condition and his battle with it. He keeps a lot to himself and his choices to not share about himself can be related to the depression and how you just feel like it's not worth bothering someone else over. Like you're not worth it. But you are. And he is - which is good to go through with him in this book. It's affirming and relatable and made me feel so deeply.
I didn't love this book as much as the previous few as it was a little slower paced with more angst (living in denial). The characters were brilliant (once again) and the story well put together with plenty of steam, just less swoony than the previous books in the series. Maybe the bar has been set very high now!
Role Model:
Outside of Scott & Kip and Shane & Ilya, I think Troy and Harris are my next favourite couple in this universe. I just adore how hopeless Troy is against Harris' charms and how clueless Harris is about how wonderful he is. I think that anyone wanting to get a complete picture of the Shane & Ilya story really needs to read this book too as there is a fair bit of Ilya's character at play in this storyline. And it certainly informs TLG.
The Long Game:
I strongly, STRONGLY encourage all readers to read all the preceding books in this series before going into this one. This book is deep and emotional and readers will only get the full impact if they've been on the whole journey. And it's worth it.
This story is wonderful and sad and uplifting and beautiful. As someone with depression, I highly value Rachel's depiction of Ilya's condition and his battle with it. He keeps a lot to himself and his choices to not share about himself can be related to the depression and how you just feel like it's not worth bothering someone else over. Like you're not worth it. But you are. And he is - which is good to go through with him in this book. It's affirming and relatable and made me feel so deeply.
January 2, 2026
So emotional! 💞
This book series is incredible!
I love all hockey romance but this entire series had me so emotionally invested that I think it has become my favourite hockey romance series!
All of the characters and all of the stories in this series filled me with so much joy but hands down Shane and Ilya's story was my favourite because it was so emotionally charged and I don't think I have ever read such an intense love between 2 people before.
Kudos to Rachel Reid for giving us all these beautiful characters and for showing us how difficult it can be for professional sports men to admit their sexuality.
Book 2 Heated Rivalry has become a hit TV series based on Shane and Ilya, however I totally recommend that if you want to read the book start with book one and work your way through the whole series because they all interact with each other and many of the characters appear in other books.
I can not recommend this series enough.
This book series is incredible!
I love all hockey romance but this entire series had me so emotionally invested that I think it has become my favourite hockey romance series!
All of the characters and all of the stories in this series filled me with so much joy but hands down Shane and Ilya's story was my favourite because it was so emotionally charged and I don't think I have ever read such an intense love between 2 people before.
Kudos to Rachel Reid for giving us all these beautiful characters and for showing us how difficult it can be for professional sports men to admit their sexuality.
Book 2 Heated Rivalry has become a hit TV series based on Shane and Ilya, however I totally recommend that if you want to read the book start with book one and work your way through the whole series because they all interact with each other and many of the characters appear in other books.
I can not recommend this series enough.
July 22, 2024
I adored this whole series. I devoured the first book and loved it so much that I read the entire series in less than a week. (ADHD hyper focus mode)
First of all, if you’re not into super spicy intimacy, these books are not for you… move on.
The mental health representation in each of these books was spot on, not to mention repping social anxieties surrounding sexuality and societal expectations — these issues were so well portrayed. Each book was so well written I breezed through all six of them this week. Absolutely adored these stories and I’m going to miss the characters terribly — may have to reread. Absolutely loved.
#slayed
#extraspicy🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥
#LGBTQ+
#hockeyromance
#MMromance
#TheGameChangersSeries
First of all, if you’re not into super spicy intimacy, these books are not for you… move on.
The mental health representation in each of these books was spot on, not to mention repping social anxieties surrounding sexuality and societal expectations — these issues were so well portrayed. Each book was so well written I breezed through all six of them this week. Absolutely adored these stories and I’m going to miss the characters terribly — may have to reread. Absolutely loved.
#slayed
#extraspicy🌶️🌶️🌶️🔥
#LGBTQ+
#hockeyromance
#MMromance
#TheGameChangersSeries
December 25, 2025
Such a cute book. Eric is a quiet, introverted guy who’s about to go through a major change in his life, and along the way he falls head over heels for Kyle, who’s 15 years younger than him. It’s not easy for him, because he doesn’t want to be a burden on someone whose whole life is still ahead of him. Kyle, for his part, is already expecting Eric to push him away, because of past experiences that shaped how he sees himself. They almost manage to ruin their chance — but only almost — and the book is smooth, fun, and pretty sexy.
I’m giving it 4 stars because the believability could have been a bit better. It all felt just a little too perfect to be real.
I’m giving it 4 stars because the believability could have been a bit better. It all felt just a little too perfect to be real.
January 29, 2026
My favorite love story
This book is a dream. These two terrific people, who just happen to be men, get to grow their love through many challenges. But their love carries them through every sadness, every physical and emotional challenge, while exposing the negative side of professional hockey. The homophobes definitely are the bad guys. And these guys, and their gay and straight friends, truly are the best. Rachel Reid’s skill in writing this multi-book series so thoroughly celebrates homosexual love, surrounded by a lot of humor and emotional strength. As an ally, what can I say? I love it.
This book is a dream. These two terrific people, who just happen to be men, get to grow their love through many challenges. But their love carries them through every sadness, every physical and emotional challenge, while exposing the negative side of professional hockey. The homophobes definitely are the bad guys. And these guys, and their gay and straight friends, truly are the best. Rachel Reid’s skill in writing this multi-book series so thoroughly celebrates homosexual love, surrounded by a lot of humor and emotional strength. As an ally, what can I say? I love it.
March 12, 2026
Middle end of their story is as epic as the beginning and bonus love!!
I loveeeed these books back when I first read them and rereading them again and again that hasn’t changed. The first two stories are short and wrapped up and lovely, there’s turmoil and the scariness of coming out adding the complexity of coming out as a professional athlete (sadly the story remains true in real life especially for male athletes). The second half of the Shane and Ilya love story also gets wrapped up here (thought 3rd book announced so yayyyyy). If you loved the first three books you MUST read these!
I loveeeed these books back when I first read them and rereading them again and again that hasn’t changed. The first two stories are short and wrapped up and lovely, there’s turmoil and the scariness of coming out adding the complexity of coming out as a professional athlete (sadly the story remains true in real life especially for male athletes). The second half of the Shane and Ilya love story also gets wrapped up here (thought 3rd book announced so yayyyyy). If you loved the first three books you MUST read these!
February 5, 2026
might be a bit unorthodox but i actually skipped to the end here and read long game first because i was desperate for some more shane & ilya. 10/10 decision on my part, if i do say so myself. i enjoyed the other two books as well (troy & harris’ over eric & kyle just for personal preference), but there’s a reason the author made hollanov the landmark couple for the game changers series. i can’t wait to see what jacob tierney does with the material when it airs or the conclusion to the story with unrivaled later this year.
January 2, 2026
Game Changers volume 2 expands and extends the amazing storylines established in volume 1.
New relationships, team camaraderie, quirky banter, spicy steamy scenes, powerful emotional moments regarding mental health and anguish over circumstances that seem beyond one’s control.
A wonderful read acknowledging diversity in all of Us, the benefits and rewards gained from a supportive network inclusive of teammates, fan base, family and friends.
Great series. Loved all of it.
New relationships, team camaraderie, quirky banter, spicy steamy scenes, powerful emotional moments regarding mental health and anguish over circumstances that seem beyond one’s control.
A wonderful read acknowledging diversity in all of Us, the benefits and rewards gained from a supportive network inclusive of teammates, fan base, family and friends.
Great series. Loved all of it.
January 5, 2026
feeling a bit conflicted about this one? there was a lot i liked but overall i didn’t love the direction the story went and specifically the ending felt rushed and didn’t go the way i would have wanted/expected it to. also a lot of plot elements just weren’t very fleshed out. this definitely reads like a fanfiction in a bad way but i still loved reading about ilya and shane and am hoping that season two of the show will help resolve some of the issues i have with the way this story wrapped up.
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