Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Role Model tackles serious topics within a romance framework. Did you find this blend of social commentary and romance effective?

2. This is the fifth book in the Game Changers series. How does Troy’s story compare to others in the series, such as Ilya’s in Heated Rivalry? If this was your first time reading one of Rachel Reid’s sports romances, are you interested in reading more?

3. What did you think of the book’s overall tone, which shifts between heavy emotional conflict and moments of humor and tenderness?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. In keeping with the novel’s title, the story explores the question of what it means to be a role model. What qualities do you think a role model should have? Who is one of your biggest role models, and why?

2. The Ottawa Centaurs become a “found family” for Troy. Within your own life, who’s part of your found family? What shared experiences brought you together?

3. Troy follows his conscience even though he faces opposition from his former best friend, fans, and even Commissioner Crowell. Have you ever been in a situation where you spoke truth to power? What happened, and what did you learn from the experience?

4. Reid explores the complex impact of social media by showing how toxic fans use it to attack Troy but also depicting how Troy leverages his online platform to call attention to important issues. Within your own life, what role does social media play, and what sorts of positive, negative, or mixed effects have you noticed?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. How does the novel’s depiction of the league protecting Dallas reflect real-world issues of accountability in professional sports and other powerful institutions?

2. The story contrasts the toxic culture in Toronto with the progressive one in Ottawa. What does this suggest about the possibility of cultural change in hypermasculine spaces?

3. What does the book ultimately say about social media’s role as a tool for both public shaming and positive social change?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. What is the significance of the Pride pins that Harris wears? How does Troy’s perception of them change, and what does this shift reveal about his journey toward self-acceptance?

2. Ilya serves as a key mentor for Troy. In what ways does his leadership provide a healthier model of masculinity?

3. What narrative purpose does the in-flight emergency serve? How does this event accelerate Troy’s emotional development and his relationship with Harris?

4. Chiron is a symbol of unconditional acceptance. What does his non-judgmental presence represent for Troy’s healing process?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Troy’s coming-out video is a key off-page moment. What is one specific message or memory you would have included in that video to capture his journey?

2. If you were to design a “welcome to the family” gift basket for Troy from the Drovers, what three items would you include to represent their support?

3. Imagine you’re helping Harris with the social media for the Centaurs on Pride Night. What kind of post would you create to celebrate Troy and engage with the fans?