‘Heated Rivalry’ Author Delays Book as Parkinson’s Symptoms Worsen
In a heartfelt message to her fans, Rachel Reid, the author known for her romance novels, announced a delay in the release of her upcoming book, “Unrivaled.” This decision comes as her Parkinson’s disease symptoms worsen, making it challenging for her to write.
Parkinson’s Diagnosis and Book Delay
Reid, whose real name is Rachelle Goguen, shared this news via social media, explaining that her diagnosis in 2023 has impacted her ability to work efficiently. Originally scheduled for release by HarperCollins in September, “Unrivaled” is now set to launch in June 2027.
Overcoming Challenges
- Reid emphasized the difficulty of balancing her health challenges with her writing.
- She expressed gratitude for her readers’ support, stating she aims to deliver a high-quality story.
- The author believes the delay will ultimately result in a better book for her audience.
Success from “Heated Rivalry”
Reid’s previous work, “Heated Rivalry,” has garnered immense success, being adapted into a television series that premiered on Crave. This adaptation has significantly raised her profile, with the series licensed by HBO Max in 2025, propelling her into mainstream fame.
Series Background
The book series began in 2018 with “Game Changer,” which illustrates the romance between a closeted hockey player and a barista. Subsequent titles include:
- “Heated Rivalry”
- “Tough Guy”
- “Common Goal”
- “Role Model”
- “The Long Game”
These stories revolve around the secret relationship of hockey players Shane and Ilya, culminating in “Unrivaled,” which delves into their life as a public couple.
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Reid remains optimistic about her work and the future of her series. She is excited about the upcoming second season of the television show. Additionally, she hinted at forthcoming announcements that may excite her fans even more.
“There are things I think people have been hoping for,” Reid stated, hinting at upcoming surprises that might ease the wait for “Unrivaled.” As she navigates her health journey, her dedication to producing quality stories remains unwavering.
