Exploring the Evolution of Shane and Ilya: An Interview with Rachel Reid

Just a year ago, author Rachel Reid was primarily known in niche circles, with her books mostly available as e-books. As an avid hockey fan, Reid was motivated to address the toxic elements within the sport and to craft narratives that focus on love and mutual understanding, all while maintaining a sense of realism.

Her work, "Heated Rivalry," the second in her seven-part Canadian novel series "Game Changers," has now become a sensation, adapted into a globally successful television show. This newfound attention has thrust both Reid and her novels into the limelight, with their popularity showing no signs of waning.

Character Development: Shane and Ilya

In a recent interview, Rachel Reid discussed the development of her lead queer characters Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov, as well as the rapid growth of queer literature.

"Initially, Ilya was much more of a stereotypical bad boy," Reid explained. "He was meaner in the early drafts. As I continued writing, I softened him, delving deeper into his character. Shane, on the other hand, remained largely unchanged. He was always the central character in my mind."

When asked about alternate career paths for Shane and Ilya if they weren't professional athletes, Reid mused, "Shane would likely be a personal trainer or physiotherapist. Ilya, he's unpredictable—perhaps a race car driver or something involving dogs, as he loves them."

Shane's Autistic Characterization

Reid also touched on Shane's characterization as an autistic individual. "From the start, his personality hinted at autism," she said. "My own experiences with my child being assessed for ADHD and autism informed my understanding of Shane."

Reid was pleased that both the actors portraying Shane and Ilya recognized this aspect of Shane's character. "Their understanding was evident in how they approached their roles," she noted. "Shane's actions and words often get misunderstood, mirroring real-life experiences of those with autism. It's encouraging that the team behind the show grasped this without explanation."

The Group Chat with Connor and Hudson

Reid shared insights into her interactions with the actors, Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams, via group chat. "We tease each other often," she laughed. "It's endearing how Connor once renamed our chat 'Shilya and the Creator.' Their playful banter is something I cherish, especially amid their busy schedules."

The Rise of Queer Literature

The conversation shifted to the broader landscape of queer literature. "Mainstream recognition of queer stories has evolved significantly," Reid observed. "A few years ago, queer characters were sidelined, often with tragic narratives. Now, they are central to mainstream romance stories with happy endings."

Reid cited "Red, White & Royal Blue" as a pivotal moment in queer literature. "That book marked a turning point. It was marketed widely, appearing in stores and even at airports. It signaled a shift in how queer romance is perceived. Before this, our works were almost hidden, available primarily as e-books or self-published."

The success of "Heated Rivalry" as both a book and a TV show exemplifies this shift. "My books were not available in print until recently," Reid explained. "But now, with the show's success, major retailers like Barnes and Noble are stocking them. The change within the span of a few years has been remarkable."

As "Heated Rivalry" continues to stream and resonate with audiences worldwide, Rachel Reid's journey highlights both personal triumphs and the broader cultural shifts toward inclusivity and representation in literature.