Books like Heated Rivalry are in demand because the story took over BookTok and then the screen. Rachel Reid’s hockey romance topped the first official UK BookTok bestseller list for March 2026, according to Books+Publishing, and a TV adaptation has sent even more readers searching for what to read next.
If you have finished it and want more rival tension, big feelings and ice rink drama, this guide gives you the Game Changers series in order and 6 more romances worth your time.
A quick note: Heated Rivalry is an adult romance with explicit scenes. Several books below are similar, so check each book’s content notes before you buy.
What Is Heated Rivalry About?
Heated Rivalry is the second book in Rachel Reid’s Game Changers series. It follows two rival professional hockey players, Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, whose competition on the ice becomes something much more complicated off it.
Game Changers Series in Order
If you want more of the same world, read Rachel Reid’s series in this order. More books follow after these.
1. Game Changer
The first book introduces the hockey world of the series. It works as a starting point if you read Heated Rivalry first and want to go back. See it on Amazon US
2. Heated Rivalry
The book that started the craze. Rivals, secrets and a slow burn that stretches across years. See it on Amazon US
3. Tough Guy
The third book continues the series with a new couple in the same hockey universe. See it on Amazon US
More Hockey Romances to Read Next
Him by Sarina Bowen and Elle Kennedy
A well loved hockey romance between two men with a friends to lovers feel. It is one of the closest matches to Rachel Reid’s style.
Icebreaker by Hannah Grace
A popular enemies to lovers romance set around a university hockey team and a figure skater who shares their rink. See it on Amazon US
The Deal by Elle Kennedy
The first book in the Off Campus series. A hockey captain and a student strike a deal that spirals into something real. See it on Amazon US
Mile High by Liz Tomforde
A hockey romance and the first book in the Windy City series, loved by fans of emotional sports stories. See it on Amazon UK
If You Loved the Rival and Slow Burn Feel
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
The son of the US president and a British prince start as enemies and end up somewhere very different. Funny, warm and full of heart. See it on Amazon US
Boyfriend Material by Alexis Hall
A London rom com about a fake relationship that starts to feel real. Lighter in tone, with plenty of charm. See it on Amazon US
How to Choose Your Next Read
- Want more hockey? Try Him or Icebreaker.
- Want the same world? Continue the Game Changers series with Tough Guy.
- Want something lighter? Try Boyfriend Material.
- Want big romance and humour? Try Red, White & Royal Blue.
For more romance and fantasy reading, see our lists of viral BookTok books 2026, best BookTok books for Gen Z and best romantasy books 2026. If you like twisty reads too, try Freida McFadden books in order.
Editions and prices change, so check the current price before you buy. Each Amazon link opens the edition we matched.
Further reading: Books+Publishing: first UK BookTok bestseller list | Book Riot: a new BookTok bestseller list
Frequently Asked Questions
What order should I read the Game Changers series in?
Start with Game Changer, then read Heated Rivalry, then Tough Guy. More books follow in the series.
Do I need to read Game Changer before Heated Rivalry?
Heated Rivalry is the second book, but many readers start there. Reading in order gives you more background.
What are good books like Heated Rivalry?
Him, Icebreaker, The Deal, Mile High, Red, White & Royal Blue and Boyfriend Material are all popular next reads.
Is Heated Rivalry an adult romance?
Yes. It contains explicit scenes and is written for adult readers.
Is there a Heated Rivalry TV show?
Yes. A TV adaptation has helped bring the book to a much wider audience.
