Game Changer by Rachel Reid Review: Cosy, Sweet, Predictable, and Proudly Queer
Game Changer by Rachel Reid is one of those books that feels like slipping into a warm jumper: cosy, familiar, and a little bit comforting, even if you know it’s not going to change your life. It’s a queer hockey romance, and the premise is delightfully straightforward. Scott, a closeted professional hockey player, falls for Kip, a witty bartender who is unapologetically himself. The novel leans into tropes with shameless joy, and that’s part of its charm. You can tell Reid loves the genre, and she writes with genuine affection for her characters.
The strength of the book lies in its heart. Scott and Kip’s relationship is tender, funny, and refreshingly low on angst. There’s a sweetness to the way their romance unfolds, and it’s hard not to root for them. Reid also explores the tension between public image and private identity, particularly in the hyper-masculine world of professional sport. It’s not heavy-handed, but it adds a layer of depth that makes the story feel more than just fluff.
That said, the writing style is very much “romance comfort read” rather than “literary masterpiece.” The prose is serviceable, but it doesn’t sparkle. Dialogue occasionally veers into the slightly cheesy, and the pacing can feel uneven. Some scenes linger too long on domestic detail, while others rush past moments that could have been more emotionally impactful. The plot is also fairly predictable. If you’ve read even a handful of queer romances, you’ll see the beats coming from a mile off.
Where Reid shines is in her characterisation. Kip, in particular, is a standout: funny, sharp, and deeply likeable. Scott, meanwhile, is endearing in his awkwardness, though at times he feels a little underdeveloped compared to Kip. Their chemistry is undeniable, but I found myself wishing for more complexity in Scott’s internal journey. The conflict resolution is almost too neat, which makes the ending satisfying but not especially memorable.
Verdict: Game Changer is like a packet of custard creams. You know exactly what you’re getting, it’s enjoyable, and it hits the spot, but it’s not going to blow your mind. I’d give it 3.75 out of 5 stars. It’s a solid, heart-warming romance with lovely representation and plenty of charm, but it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the genre’s best. Perfect if you’re after something light, queer, and comforting, but not necessarily the book you’ll be pressing into everyone’s hands as a must-read.
