Funeral in the Rain

Riley Tuck stands at his father's funeral, numb with grief, when Adam Sheppard—his former best friend and secret love—walks in, stirring up old wounds. The rain outside mirrors Riley's internal storm as he struggles to hold himself together for his family. Adam's presence is both a comfort and a torment, reminding Riley of everything unresolved between them. The funeral is crowded, filled with people who loved Riley's father, a man who was the heart of their small Nova Scotia town. Riley's eulogy is raw and honest, and Adam's silent support from the back of the church is both a balm and a fresh ache. The day ends with Riley feeling more alone than ever, haunted by loss and the ghost of a love that never healed.

Ghosts of Old Love

Memories pull Riley back to his twenties, when he and Adam were teammates, roommates, and secret lovers. Their relationship was passionate but fraught, always hidden, always complicated by Adam's fear and Riley's longing. They found solace in each other after games, in stolen moments and coded language, but never dared to speak the truth aloud. Riley's confession of love was met with Adam's denial, a wound that never closed. The past is alive in Riley's mind, every touch and word echoing in the present, making Adam's return all the more painful. The chapter pulses with nostalgia, regret, and the ache of what might have been.

Unspoken Words, Unhealed Wounds

Adam, now divorced and out to himself but not the world, stays in town, hoping to reconnect. He calls his ex-wife Maggie, who encourages him to stay and try to make amends. Adam's loneliness is palpable; he's retired, his kids are distant, and he's haunted by the choices that led him away from Riley. Meanwhile, Riley is overwhelmed by grief and resentment, unable to process Adam's sudden reappearance. Both men are trapped by the words they never said and the wounds they never let heal, circling each other with a mix of hope and bitterness.

Rearranging the Ruins

After the funeral, Riley's family gathers, trying to comfort each other. Riley's sister Lindsay worries about him, knowing he's always struggled with loss and change. Friends offer support, but Riley feels isolated, unable to share the depth of his pain. The house is full of memories, and everywhere Riley turns, he's reminded of his father's absence and Adam's presence. Even his dog, Lucky, seems to sense the upheaval. The chapter is heavy with the sense of things falling apart, and Riley's desperate attempts to hold on to something solid.

Unexpected Guests, Unfinished Business

Adam visits Riley's family home, offering to help with chores as a way to stay close. Lindsay is wary but allows him in, sensing his sincerity. Adam learns that Riley is single, but the knowledge brings little comfort—too much has happened between them. Susan, Riley's mother, is gracious but hints at the pain Adam caused. Adam volunteers to bring Riley lunch at the shop, hoping for a chance to talk. The tension is thick, every interaction loaded with history and longing.

Shop Chaos, Heart Chaos

Riley tries to distract himself by rearranging his father's sporting goods store, but the chaos mirrors his internal state. Adam arrives with lunch, offering help, but Riley lashes out, unable to accept kindness from the man who broke his heart. Adam leaves, but not before making it clear he's not giving up. Alone, Riley is left to confront the mess—both in the shop and in his heart. The chapter is a study in avoidance, guilt, and the slow, painful process of facing what hurts.

Cinnamon Buns and Confessions

Adam brings coffee and cinnamon buns to the shop, trying to bridge the gap with Riley. Their conversation is awkward, full of old jokes and new silences. Riley's anger softens, just a little, as Adam's persistence chips away at his defenses. They talk about the past, about coming out, about regrets. Adam finally admits he's gay, a truth that lands with both relief and pain. The chapter is tender and tentative, a turning point where honesty begins to replace avoidance.

Bonfire Memories Rekindled

Flashbacks to a magical summer night on the beach, when Riley and Adam's love felt possible. The memory of a bonfire, stars, and secret kisses haunts them both. In the present, Adam's mention of the bonfire stirs up longing and hope. Riley visits friends, seeking comfort and perspective, but the past is never far away. The chapter weaves together memory and present, showing how love endures even when it's buried under years of pain.

The Cup and the Crash

The story flashes back to the night Adam and Riley won the Stanley Cup together—a night of ultimate triumph that ended in heartbreak. Their celebration turns intimate, but Adam's fear and denial shatter the moment. The aftermath is devastating, setting the stage for years of silence and regret. In the present, both men are haunted by that night, unable to move forward until they confront what happened. The chapter is a powerful exploration of how joy and pain can be inseparable.

Grief, Guilt, and Goodbyes

Riley grapples with the reality of his father's death, the sale of the family truck, and the shifting dynamics of his family. Adam continues to help, quietly supporting Riley even when he's pushed away. The two men circle each other, their conversations growing more honest and vulnerable. Riley's anger gives way to exhaustion, and Adam's patience begins to pay off. The chapter is about the slow, difficult work of grieving and the possibility of forgiveness.

Friends, Family, and Fears

Riley's friends and family rally around him, offering love and practical help. Adam meets Riley's queer friends, seeing the life Riley has built without him. The contrast between Adam's loneliness and Riley's community is stark, but it also offers hope. Both men begin to imagine a future where they can be honest about who they are and what they want. The chapter is full of warmth, humor, and the tentative steps toward healing.

The Longest Night

After a night out, Riley and Adam finally confront their feelings in a raw, emotional confrontation. Old wounds are reopened, but so are old desires. They argue, cry, and finally, kiss—breaking the cycle of avoidance. The night is long and difficult, but it ends with a sense of possibility. For the first time, both men allow themselves to hope for something more.

Homecoming and Healing

Adam moves in with Riley temporarily, recovering from a shoulder injury. Their domestic life is awkward at first, but small moments of intimacy and care begin to rebuild trust. They cook, talk, and share memories, slowly finding their way back to each other. The chapter is about the healing power of everyday kindness and the courage it takes to start over.

Dancing Around the Truth

Riley and Adam dance together in the living room, a simple act that becomes a declaration of love. They talk openly about their fears, their hopes, and their desire to be together. The physical and emotional barriers between them fall away, replaced by tenderness and longing. The chapter is a celebration of vulnerability and the joy of being seen and loved for who you are.

Forgiveness in the Garden

In Riley's garden, surrounded by new growth, the two men finally forgive each other—and themselves—for the pain they caused. They talk about the future, about coming out, about building a life together. The garden becomes a symbol of renewal, a place where old wounds can heal and new love can flourish. The chapter is quiet and hopeful, a testament to the power of forgiveness.

Banquet of Second Chances

Adam hosts the local hockey banquet, honoring Riley's father and bringing joy to the town's children. The event is a turning point, showing both men that they are loved and accepted by their community. A stolen kiss in a storage room is both a risk and a promise, a sign that they are ready to claim their happiness. The chapter is full of laughter, gratitude, and the sweetness of second chances.

Storage Room Kisses

The tension between Riley and Adam boils over into a passionate, secret kiss during the banquet. The thrill of being caught is matched by the thrill of finally being honest about their feelings. The moment is both playful and profound, a symbol of how far they've come and how much they still want from each other. The chapter is electric with desire and the joy of rediscovered love.

The Last Morning

Adam prepares to leave Nova Scotia, and the goodbye is heavy with unspoken promises and lingering doubts. Both men are afraid to hope, but neither wants to let go. They agree to stay in touch, to give themselves time to heal and decide what they want. The chapter is full of longing, uncertainty, and the quiet courage it takes to trust in love again.

Distance and Determination

Separated by geography, Riley and Adam keep in touch through texts and calls, their bond growing stronger with each conversation. Both men confront their fears and insecurities, but the distance only clarifies what they want: each other. Adam prepares for surgery, and Riley promises to be there for him. The chapter is about the determination to fight for love, no matter the obstacles.

Reunion in the City

Riley travels to Toronto to care for Adam after surgery, and their reunion is full of tenderness and humor. They navigate the challenges of recovery together, deepening their intimacy and trust. The city, once a place of secrets and pain, becomes a backdrop for new beginnings. The chapter is about the joy of being together, even in difficult circumstances.

Silk Robes and New Beginnings

As Adam heals, the couple settles into a new rhythm, sharing meals, laughter, and affection. Silk robes become a symbol of their comfort and confidence with each other. They talk about the future, about coming out, about making their relationship public. The chapter is light, sexy, and full of hope—a celebration of love's everyday magic.

Surgery, Support, and Saying It

Adam's surgery is a test of trust and vulnerability, but Riley's unwavering support helps him through. In the quiet moments after, they finally say the words they've both been afraid to say: I love you. The chapter is a culmination of their journey, a moment of peace and certainty after years of turmoil.

Five Years Forward

Five years later, Riley and Adam are married, living together in Nova Scotia, surrounded by friends, family, and the sea. Their love is steady and joyful, built on forgiveness, honesty, and shared dreams. They've weathered loss, distance, and the challenges of coming out, but have found happiness together. The chapter is a testament to the power of second chances and the enduring strength of love.

Characters

Riley Tuck

Riley is a former NHL defenseman whose life has been shaped by both triumph and trauma. The sudden death of his beloved father leaves him adrift, but it's the return of Adam Sheppard—his first love and greatest heartbreak—that forces him to confront old wounds. Riley is fiercely loyal, deeply sensitive, and struggles with depression and emotional dysregulation. His journey is one of learning to forgive, to accept help, and to believe he is worthy of love. Through grief, therapy, and the support of friends and family, Riley finds the strength to open his heart again, ultimately building a life of quiet joy and authenticity.

Adam Sheppard

Adam is a retired hockey legend, celebrated for his skill and leadership but haunted by the choices that cost him Riley. Divorced and newly out, Adam is lonely and searching for meaning beyond the rink. His return to Nova Scotia is driven by guilt, longing, and the hope of reconciliation. Adam is charming, persistent, and deeply caring, but struggles with shame and the fear of being truly seen. His arc is one of self-acceptance, as he learns to own his sexuality, make amends, and fight for the love he once denied himself. Adam's vulnerability and determination make him both relatable and deeply sympathetic.

Lindsay Tuck

Lindsay is Riley's younger sister, a physiotherapist who balances her own grief with concern for her brother. She is direct, compassionate, and unafraid to challenge Riley or Adam when necessary. Lindsay's role is that of a steadying force, offering practical support and tough love. Her presence highlights the importance of family and the ways in which love can be both a comfort and a challenge during times of crisis.

Susan Tuck

Susan is Riley's mother, recently widowed but determined to keep her family together. She embodies warmth, resilience, and acceptance, welcoming Adam back into their lives despite the pain he caused. Susan's wisdom and humor provide a model for grieving with grace and moving forward without forgetting the past. Her relationship with Riley is tender and supportive, a reminder that love endures even in loss.

Maggie Sheppard

Maggie is Adam's ex-wife and the mother of his children. She is understanding, forgiving, and remarkably generous, encouraging Adam to seek closure with Riley. Maggie's acceptance of Adam's sexuality and her willingness to remain friends highlight the possibilities of love evolving rather than ending. Her presence in the story adds depth to Adam's journey and underscores the importance of honesty and kindness in relationships.

Darren

Darren is Riley's longtime friend and former hookup, now happily married to Tom. He is flamboyant, supportive, and unafraid to call Riley out on his self-sabotage. Darren's friendship offers Riley a model of queer happiness and community, and his humor lightens even the darkest moments. Darren's relationship with Tom is a counterpoint to Riley and Adam's struggles, showing what's possible when love is embraced openly.

Tom

Tom is Darren's husband, a calming presence who offers practical support and emotional wisdom. He is welcoming to Adam and Riley, providing a safe space for vulnerability and healing. Tom's steady love for Darren and his acceptance of Riley's pain make him an essential part of the found family that sustains the protagonists.

Lucky

Lucky is Riley's dog, a constant companion through grief and recovery. His presence is a source of comfort and grounding for Riley, embodying the simple, steadfast love that humans often struggle to give each other. Lucky's role is both literal and symbolic, reminding Riley (and the reader) of the healing power of connection.

Steve

Steve works at Tuck's Sporting Goods and has known Riley for years. He represents the continuity of small-town life and the importance of community support. Steve's steady presence in the shop and his gentle encouragement help Riley find his footing after his father's death.

Cathy

Cathy is a local organizer who ropes Adam into hosting the minor hockey banquet. Her enthusiasm and kindness help bring Adam and Riley back into the heart of the community, providing opportunities for public support and celebration. Cathy's role is to facilitate moments of connection and to remind the protagonists that they are valued and needed.

Plot Devices

Dual Timeline Structure

The novel weaves together present-day events with flashbacks to Riley and Adam's shared history, gradually revealing the depth of their connection and the pain of their separation. This structure allows the reader to experience the intensity of their early love, the devastation of their breakup, and the slow, difficult process of reconciliation. The interplay of timelines creates suspense, deepens character development, and underscores the enduring impact of past choices on the present.

Symbolism of Place and Objects

The small town of Avery River, the family shop, the beach, and Riley's garden all serve as extensions of the characters' emotional landscapes. The shop's chaos mirrors Riley's grief; the bonfire and beach evoke lost innocence and hope; the garden symbolizes healing and new growth. Objects like cinnamon buns, silk robes, and hockey jerseys become tokens of love, comfort, and identity, grounding the story in tangible details that carry emotional weight.

Foreshadowing and Repetition

Repeated motifs—such as the phrase "I love you," the act of dancing, and the sharing of food—foreshadow the eventual reconciliation and happiness of the protagonists. Early scenes of avoidance and denial are mirrored by later scenes of honesty and acceptance, creating a satisfying narrative arc that rewards patience and vulnerability.

Community as Character

Avery River is more than a backdrop; it is an active force in the story, offering both comfort and challenge. The support (and sometimes meddling) of friends, family, and neighbors provides the context in which Riley and Adam must confront their fears and find the courage to love openly. The community's acceptance is both a reward and a test, reflecting the broader themes of belonging and authenticity.

Emotional Realism and Mental Health

The novel does not shy away from the realities of mental illness, addiction, and the long road to recovery. Riley's struggles with depression and emotional dysregulation are depicted with nuance and compassion, and his journey toward healing is neither linear nor easy. The story uses therapy, medication, and the support of loved ones as realistic tools for growth, emphasizing that love alone is not a cure, but it can be a powerful catalyst for change.

Analysis

Rachel Reid's The Shots You Take is a deeply moving exploration of grief, love, and the courage it takes to heal old wounds. At its heart, the novel is about second chances—not just in romance, but in life itself. Through the intertwined stories of Riley and Adam, Reid examines how the past shapes the present, and how forgiveness (of oneself and others) is essential for growth. The book is unflinching in its portrayal of mental health struggles, the complexities of coming out, and the challenges of building a life after loss. Yet it is also suffused with hope, humor, and the quiet joys of everyday intimacy. The small-town setting and rich supporting cast ground the story in community, reminding readers that healing is rarely a solitary journey. Ultimately, The Shots You Take is a testament to the power of vulnerability, the necessity of honesty, and the enduring strength of love—even, and especially, when it is hard-won.

Last updated: March 20, 2026