Early Book Review: Role Model (Game Changers) by Rachel Reid

Role Model is the fifth book in the Game Changers series by Rachel Reid and is currently scheduled for release on August 10 2021. Each book in the series can stand up fine on its own, but some subtext and inside jokes will be missed if you have not read the previous books. 

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.

Role Model is a read that tackles some of the same big issues as previous books in this series (homophobia and all the trauma that comes with it) and adds in the rape culture that seems to be all to common. Even with all that going on the character development and growth of the characters is not lost or diminished. I hurt for Troy as he comes to terms with the things he lost and tries to become a better person. I found his journey to be realistic and very well written. Seeing returning characters get some page time and play a solid role in Troy's story made me very happy. I have to say that I love Harris. He is sweet and understanding but does not come off like a doormat, rather just someone that can wait for the right moment and doing what he can to make everyone's life better. I loved the honesty and direct handling of the varied elements of the story and cannot wait for more from the author.

Role Model is another great read from Reid. It is a definite must read for fans and a simply great read for everyone else.