Plot Summary
Shattered Trust, New Beginnings
Troy Barrett's life implodes when he publicly calls out his best friend and teammate, Dallas Kent, for sexual assault. Ostracized by his old team and fans, Troy is traded to the struggling Ottawa Centaurs. Alone and adrift, he's haunted by guilt for not seeing Kent's true nature sooner and for the years he spent complicit in a toxic culture. The move to Ottawa is a demotion in every sense—he's lost his friends, his shot at the Cup, and his secret boyfriend. Troy's arrival is met with suspicion and coldness, both from his new teammates and the hockey world at large. He's determined to keep his head down and just play hockey, but the pain of betrayal and the weight of his own silence threaten to crush him.
The Social Media Spark
Harris Drover, the Centaurs' social media manager, is everything Troy isn't: open, cheerful, and unapologetically queer. Harris's rainbow pins and easy confidence unsettle Troy, who's spent his career hiding his sexuality. Their first interactions are awkward, with Harris misreading Troy's discomfort as homophobia. But Harris's genuine kindness and humor begin to chip away at Troy's defenses. As Harris works to integrate Troy into the team's public image, he senses there's more to Troy than the rumors suggest. Both men are drawn to each other, but Troy's fear and self-loathing keep him at arm's length, even as Harris's presence becomes a rare comfort.
Outcast on the Ice
Troy's first days with the Centaurs are a disaster. He's off his game, his teammates are wary, and the fans are openly hostile. The shadow of Dallas Kent looms large, and Troy's own father's toxic masculinity echoes in his mind. The only bright spot is the team's new therapy puppy, Chiron, whose innocent affection offers Troy a rare moment of peace. Harris's attempts to draw Troy out—through interviews, social media, and small acts of kindness—are met with resistance, but a fragile connection begins to form. Troy's loneliness is compounded by the recent end of his secret relationship, leaving him emotionally raw and desperate for belonging.
Team Dynamics and Doubt
The Centaurs' locker room is a mix of skepticism and cautious hope. Some teammates, like goalie Wyatt and captain Ilya Rozanov, are willing to give Troy a chance, but others see him as a traitor or a liability. Troy's reputation as a "dick" precedes him, and his own self-doubt sabotages his efforts to fit in. Harris, meanwhile, is determined to show the world—and Troy himself—that there's more to him than his past. As the team bonds over barbecues, hospital visits, and puppy antics, Troy begins to see glimpses of the camaraderie he's been missing, but he's still haunted by guilt and fear.
Ghosts of Vancouver
A road trip to Vancouver forces Troy to face his estranged father and the pain of his breakup. A night of drinking leads to a disastrous game and a stern warning from Ilya. Troy's father's casual misogyny and dismissal of the Kent accusations reinforce everything Troy is trying to escape. The visit is a painful reminder of the cost of silence and the difficulty of breaking free from toxic legacies. Yet, in the aftermath, Troy finds unexpected support from teammates who share their own stories and offer a path toward healing.
Finding Connection
Back in Ottawa, Harris's persistent kindness and humor begin to thaw Troy's defenses. Coffee deliveries, shared jokes, and late-night texts become lifelines. Harris's family, with their apple orchard and chaotic Sunday dinners, represent a warmth and acceptance Troy has never known. As they spend more time together—at team events, in quiet offices, and on snowy drives—Troy's longing for connection deepens. The boundaries between friendship and something more blur, but Troy's fear of exposure and internalized shame keep him from reaching out fully.
Barbecue and Belonging
A team barbecue at Bood's house becomes a turning point. Surrounded by laughter, food, and genuine camaraderie, Troy glimpses the possibility of belonging. Teammates share their support for his stand against Kent, and Harris's presence is a steady comfort. The party is a stark contrast to the toxic environments Troy has known, and he begins to imagine a future where he can be himself. Yet, the fear of rejection and the weight of his secrets remain ever-present, threatening to undo his progress.
Puppy Therapy and Quiet Longing
Chiron, the team's therapy puppy, becomes a symbol of hope and healing. His unconditional affection draws out the softer sides of even the toughest players, and Troy finds solace in his company. Harris's decision to adopt Chiron cements his role as the team's emotional center. Quiet moments—walking the dog, sharing lattes, making GIFs—become opportunities for Troy and Harris to connect without pretense. The puppy's presence helps Troy lower his guard, and the longing between the two men grows more palpable, though still unspoken.
Hospital Visits, Hidden Hearts
A visit to a children's hospital showcases the best of the Centaurs and the best in Troy. Despite his discomfort, Troy rises to the occasion, offering smiles and autographs to kids who see him as a hero. Harris captures these moments, both for social media and for himself, recognizing the vulnerability beneath Troy's gruff exterior. The experience is transformative, allowing Troy to see himself through the eyes of others and to imagine being worthy of admiration and love. The bond between Troy and Harris deepens, though both are still navigating the boundaries of friendship and desire.
Mixed Messages, Growing Bonds
As their friendship intensifies, Troy and Harris struggle with mixed signals and unspoken feelings. Late-night conversations, shared vulnerabilities, and accidental touches heighten the tension. Troy's questions about Harris's dating life and his own sexuality become more pointed, and Harris senses that something is shifting. A near-death experience on a team flight brings everything to a head, stripping away pretense and forcing both men to confront what they truly want. In the aftermath, boundaries blur, and a night of comfort turns into something more.
Facing the Past
Troy's journey toward self-acceptance requires facing the people he's hurt and the parts of himself he's tried to hide. He seeks out Ryan Price, a former teammate he once mocked, to apologize and make amends. The encounter is awkward but cathartic, and it inspires Troy to be braver in his own life. Encouraged by Ilya and supported by Harris, Troy begins to imagine a future where he can be open about who he is. The process is messy and painful, but each step brings him closer to the man he wants to be.
Coming Out, Coming Home
The decision to come out publicly is both liberating and terrifying. Troy's mother's unwavering support is a balm, but his father's rejection is a final, painful severing of old wounds. Harris stands by him, offering love and reassurance. The team, led by Ilya, rallies around Troy, and the locker room becomes a place of acceptance rather than fear. Troy's public coming out is met with overwhelming support from fans and the hockey community, and for the first time, he feels truly at home—in his own skin and in the world.
Crisis in the Skies
A harrowing emergency landing on a team flight forces everyone to confront their mortality. In the chaos, Troy and Harris reach for each other, their connection a lifeline amid the fear. The experience strips away all pretense, and in the aftermath, they find comfort in each other's arms. The near-death experience crystallizes what matters most, and both men resolve to stop wasting time on fear and regret. The crisis becomes a catalyst for honesty, vulnerability, and the pursuit of happiness.
Aftermath and First Steps
In the wake of the plane incident, Troy and Harris navigate the messy aftermath—trauma, desire, and the need for comfort. A night spent together blurs the lines between friendship and love, and both men are forced to confront what they want from each other. The boundaries they set are tested by longing and the realization that life is too short to deny themselves happiness. Small acts of care—ice cream, laughter, touch—become the foundation for something deeper.
Confessions and Boundaries
As their relationship deepens, Troy and Harris grapple with the challenges of being together in a world that isn't always safe. Troy's fear of exposure and Harris's need for honesty create tension, but their affection for each other is undeniable. They negotiate boundaries, support each other's growth, and find joy in the ordinary moments of life. The team's success on the ice mirrors their progress off it, and the possibility of a future together becomes more real.
Turning Points
Troy's decision to use his platform to support victims of sexual assault brings both praise and backlash. The league's attempts to silence him are met with quiet defiance, and the support of his team and coach gives him the strength to continue. Harris's unwavering belief in Troy inspires him to be braver, both on and off the ice. Together, they navigate the complexities of love, activism, and identity, emerging as role models for others.
Pride Night
Pride Night becomes the stage for Troy's public coming out. The support from fans, teammates, and the broader hockey community is overwhelming, and the game itself is a triumph. Troy's relationship with Harris is no longer a secret, and their love becomes a symbol of hope and change. The night is a celebration of authenticity, courage, and the power of community. For the first time, Troy feels seen, loved, and proud.
Lovebird Getaway
A romantic getaway to a spa retreat allows Troy and Harris to deepen their connection away from the pressures of the public eye. Surrounded by comfort and beauty, they share laughter, touch, and dreams for the future. The experience is healing and affirming, a reward for the risks they've taken and the pain they've endured. In each other's arms, they find the safety and acceptance they've always craved.
Family, Forgiveness, and Future
Meeting Harris's family and being welcomed into their chaotic, loving home is both overwhelming and transformative for Troy. The contrast with his own family is stark, but the experience offers a glimpse of the life he could have. Forgiveness, both of himself and others, becomes possible. Together, Troy and Harris imagine a future filled with love, laughter, and the freedom to be themselves.
The Role Model Emerges
Troy's journey from outcast to role model is complete. He embraces his platform, using it to advocate for change and support others. His relationship with Harris is public and celebrated, and the team's success on the ice mirrors the joy in his personal life. The story ends with Troy fully inhabiting his new role—not just as a hockey star, but as a symbol of courage, authenticity, and hope for a better future.
Analysis
Role Model is a powerful exploration of redemption, vulnerability, and the transformative power of love and community. At its core, the novel interrogates the toxic legacies of masculinity, silence, and complicity that pervade both sports culture and society at large. Through Troy's journey—from a closeted, self-loathing outcast to a courageous advocate and loving partner—the story illustrates the pain of hiding and the healing that comes from connection. Harris serves as both a catalyst and a mirror, embodying the possibility of living openly and joyfully, even in the face of adversity. The novel's use of found family, public activism, and intimate romance offers a blueprint for change, both personal and collective. By centering queer love, accountability, and the importance of small acts of kindness, Role Model challenges readers to imagine a world where authenticity is celebrated and where even the most broken among us can become sources of hope and inspiration. The ultimate lesson is that true strength lies not in perfection or bravado, but in the willingness to be seen, to love, and to fight for a better future—for ourselves and for others.
Review Summary
Role Model by Rachel Reid receives widespread praise (4.2/5 rating) as a favorite in the Game Changers series, with readers particularly loving the grumpy/sunshine dynamic between Troy and Harris. Troy's redemption arc from closeted, homophobic behavior to becoming his authentic self resonates strongly. Harris, described as "a walking ray of sunshine," helps Troy transform. Reviewers appreciate the realistic handling of sexual assault issues and coming out stories. Ilya's presence as team captain delights fans. Some note the relationship progressed quickly and desired more depth for Harris's character. Overall, praised as heartwarming, funny, and emotionally satisfying hockey romance.
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Characters
Troy Barrett
Troy is a talented hockey player whose world is upended when he calls out his best friend for sexual assault. His journey is one of painful self-examination, as he confronts his own complicity in toxic masculinity and the cost of silence. Deeply closeted and burdened by shame, Troy is isolated, prickly, and slow to trust. His relationship with Harris becomes a lifeline, offering the possibility of love and acceptance. Over the course of the story, Troy transforms from a self-loathing outcast to a courageous role model, learning to forgive himself and embrace vulnerability. His arc is defined by the struggle to reconcile his public persona with his true self, and by the healing power of connection.
Harris Drover
Harris is the Centaurs' social media manager, known for his humor, kindness, and unapologetic queerness. He is the emotional center of the team, using his warmth and creativity to foster community and support. Harris's own history—marked by health challenges and a loving, chaotic family—gives him a deep well of empathy. He is patient with Troy's fears, but also values honesty and self-respect. Harris's journey is one of balancing his desire to help others with his own needs, and of learning to trust that he is worthy of love. His relationship with Troy is both a source of joy and a test of his boundaries, ultimately affirming his belief in the transformative power of authenticity.
Ilya Rozanov
Ilya is the Centaurs' captain, a larger-than-life presence both on and off the ice. Known for his confidence and sharp wit, he is a natural leader who values inclusion and loyalty. Ilya's own experiences with prejudice and secrecy make him uniquely empathetic to Troy's struggles. He pushes Troy to be braver, both as a player and as a person, and serves as a model of unapologetic selfhood. His friendship with Harris and his mentorship of Troy are crucial to the team's cohesion and Troy's growth.
Wyatt Hayes
Wyatt is the team's starting goalie and one of the first to offer Troy a second chance. His easygoing nature and genuine kindness make him a stabilizing force in the locker room. Wyatt's own family, including a queer sister, gives him a personal stake in issues of inclusion. He is a quiet advocate, supporting Troy both on and off the ice, and helping to create a culture of acceptance within the team.
Zane Boodram (Bood)
Bood is a veteran player known for his culinary skills and fierce loyalty. Initially skeptical of Troy, he becomes one of his staunchest defenders. Bood's home is the site of key team gatherings, and his straightforward approach to life and hockey helps ground the team. His journey to fatherhood and his commitment to his teammates exemplify the story's themes of chosen family and growth.
Gen
Gen is the team photographer and Harris's close friend. She is sharp, perceptive, and unafraid to speak her mind. Gen's role is to capture the team's story and to support Harris, often serving as a sounding board for his hopes and frustrations. Her presence adds depth to the team's off-ice dynamics and highlights the importance of allyship.
Dallas Kent
Dallas is Troy's former best friend and the catalyst for the story's central conflict. Outwardly charming and talented, he is revealed to be a serial abuser protected by the league's silence. Dallas represents the dark side of sports culture—the complicity, denial, and misogyny that enable harm. His downfall is both a reckoning and a release for Troy, forcing him to confront his own past and choose a different path.
Julia Barrett (Troy's mother)
Julia is Troy's mother, whose own journey through betrayal and renewal mirrors her son's. Her unwavering support and gentle wisdom are crucial to Troy's healing. Julia's ability to forgive, to love unconditionally, and to encourage Troy to be his true self provides a model of healthy family and hope.
Curtis Barrett (Troy's father)
Curtis is the source of much of Troy's pain and self-doubt. His rigid masculinity, bigotry, and emotional distance haunt Troy, shaping his fears and insecurities. Curtis's eventual rejection of Troy is both devastating and liberating, allowing Troy to finally break free from the past and embrace his own values.
Chiron
Chiron, the team's therapy puppy, is a catalyst for connection and healing. His presence softens hardened hearts, bridges gaps between teammates, and offers unconditional affection. Chiron's journey—from would-be therapy dog to beloved team mascot and Harris's companion—mirrors the story's themes of acceptance, belonging, and the transformative power of love.
Plot Devices
Redemption Arc and Found Family
The narrative is structured around Troy's fall from grace and his gradual redemption, both in his own eyes and in the eyes of others. The found family trope is central, as the Centaurs become a surrogate family for Troy, offering the acceptance and support he never received from his own. The story uses parallel arcs—Troy's personal growth and the team's rise from underdogs to contenders—to reinforce the message that healing and success are possible through vulnerability, honesty, and community.
Dual Perspectives and Emotional Intimacy
The novel alternates between Troy and Harris's perspectives, allowing readers to experience the story's emotional highs and lows from both sides. This duality creates dramatic irony, as each man misinterprets the other's actions and intentions, heightening tension and empathy. The use of intimate, often mundane moments—coffee runs, dog walks, late-night texts—grounds the romance in reality and makes the eventual union feel earned and authentic.
Symbolism and Motifs
Chiron the puppy symbolizes innocence, healing, and the possibility of new beginnings. Hockey itself is both a source of trauma and a path to redemption, mirroring Troy's internal struggles. Social media serves as both a battleground and a bridge, allowing characters to shape their own narratives, advocate for change, and find community. The recurring motifs of food, family, and physical touch reinforce the story's focus on comfort, care, and the importance of small acts of love.
Foreshadowing and Parallelism
Early references to Troy's discomfort with Harris's openness, his longing for connection, and his guilt over past actions foreshadow his eventual transformation. The story draws parallels between Troy's relationship with his parents and his relationships with teammates and Harris, highlighting the ways in which old wounds can be healed through new bonds. The use of public events—Pride Night, social media posts, team gatherings—serves as both a mirror and a catalyst for private growth.
Public vs. Private Identity
A central device is the contrast between Troy's public persona and his private self. The narrative explores the costs of hiding, the fear of exposure, and the liberation that comes with authenticity. The gradual shift from secrecy to openness is mirrored in the changing dynamics of the team, the evolving relationship with Harris, and the public's response to Troy's coming out. The story ultimately argues that true belonging is only possible when we allow ourselves to be seen.
