What's Happening?
The Canadian TV series 'Heated Rivalry,' which debuted on HBO on November 28, has significantly boosted the sales of the novel it is based on. The book, written by Rachel Reid, is part of her Game Changers
series and was originally published in 2019. Since the show's premiere, sales of the novel have increased by nearly 600%, with the trade paperback selling close to 23,000 copies in the week ending January 10, 2026. This surge has placed the book at #7 on Bookscan's weekly overall bestseller list. The success of the series has also led to a second season being planned, which will be based on Reid's subsequent novel, 'The Long Game.' This book has also seen a significant rise in sales, reaching #21 on the bestseller list.
Why It's Important?
The success of 'Heated Rivalry' highlights the growing popularity and market for LGBTQ+ romance stories. The substantial increase in book sales following the TV adaptation underscores the potential for cross-media success in this genre. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences, with LGBTQ+ romance sales tripling between 2021 and 2025. The success of Reid's work could encourage publishers and producers to invest more in similar stories, potentially leading to greater representation and diversity in media. This development is significant for the publishing industry, as it demonstrates the commercial viability of LGBTQ+ narratives and could influence future publishing and production decisions.
What's Next?
With the announcement of a new novel in the Game Changers series, Harlequin is capitalizing on the current momentum. The upcoming book, set to release in the fall, will continue the story of the characters Ilya and Shane, further expanding the series. The continued success of 'Heated Rivalry' and its adaptations could lead to more opportunities for Rachel Reid and similar authors. Additionally, the planned second season of the TV series is likely to maintain interest in the books, potentially driving further sales and expanding the audience for LGBTQ+ romance stories.
