The 2026 TV schedule is taking shape, and for many, the wait for more captivating content is already underway. With the conclusion of Season 1 of Heated Rivalry still fresh in viewers’ minds, and the show renewed for a second season, fans are eagerly seeking their next binge-worthy obsession. For one writer, that search led to a new series that promises to fill the void.
Heated Rivalry Sent Me Down Quite The Hockey Romance Rabbit Hole
It’s no surprise that millions tuned in to watch this steamy gay hockey show, and it quickly became a favorite. What was unexpected was the depth of that enjoyment, leading to an immediate dive into the books that inspired Heated Rivalry.
For those unfamiliar, Heated Rivalry is based on Rachel Reid’s Game Changers series, comprising six books with a seventh on the way. Heated Rivalry focuses on the relationship between Shane and Ilya, and is the second book in the series. The first book, Game Changer, which follows Scott and Kip, is also featured in Season 1 and is available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription.
Having quickly read all six books – Tough Guy, Common Goal, Role Model, and Shane and Ilya’s sequel, The Long Game – the need for a new hockey romance became apparent. Fortunately, a solution presented itself almost immediately.
Now, I’m Diving Into Off Campus, And I Can’t Wait For The Show
The day I finished the Game Changers series, I began researching upcoming book-to-screen adaptations. Having read a lot of romance, I was already aware of Elle Kennedy’s novels and knew a series was in development for Amazon Prime subscribers. However, I hadn’t explored them until now.
Several factors prompted this dive. First, I was still captivated by Heated Rivalry and craving more steamy hockey romance. Like Reid’s series, the Off Campus books each center on a different couple involving a hockey player, with storylines often overlapping. The four main characters – Garrett (Belmont Cameli), Logan (Antonio Cipriano), Tucker (Jalen Thomas Brooks), and Dean (Stephen Kalyn) – are a close-knit group of housemates and teammates. It was a compelling setup, and I was immediately hooked.
The impending release of the show solidified my decision to start reading. Season 1 will follow the events of The Deal, which tells the story of Hannah (Ella Bright), a music student, and Garrett, the hockey team captain. They strike a deal: Hannah will tutor Garrett if he helps her make a crush jealous. It’s a classic fake-dating, opposites-attract scenario. While different from Heated Rivalry, it promises the same level of excitement and passion. I’m thoroughly enjoying the books and eagerly anticipating the show.
Currently, Off Campus does not have a specific release date, but it is confirmed to premiere in 2026. This gives ample time to read Elle Kennedy’s books before the show arrives. And, it provides plenty of content to enjoy while waiting for Season 2 of Heated Rivalry.
