Hey there, fellow book lovers! Happy Tuesday, or whatever day it is when you’re reading this. I read “The Graham Effect” Earlier this month and realized this book centers around the daughter of Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham so I just had to read their story in “The Deal” by Elle Kennedy. This is the start of the Off-Campus series and let me tell you, it was a wild ride from start to finish.

So picture this my friends: a sassy heroine, a bad-boy hockey captain, and a deal that turns into something way more complicated than a simple tutoring session. Yes, Please!

This story follows Hannah Wells, who’s got her eyes set on a certain someone but needs a little push in the right direction. Enter Garrett Graham, the cocky captain of the hockey team, who’s willing to help her out… for a price. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be a tutor to a guy with a smirk that could melt ice? I know I would.

Hannah’s confidence in most aspects of her life doesn’t quite extend to the realm of romance, and Garrett, despite his tough exterior, is dealing with his own set of challenges. Cue a deal that involves fake dating, jealousy, and a whole lot of unexpected twists.

The banter between these two is off the charts. Elle Kennedy has once again nailed the witty dialogue, making every interaction between these two a delightful exchange of sarcasm and humor. It’s the kind of banter that has you grinning like a fool and rooting for the characters to just admit they’re head over heels for each other already.

And let’s talk about the chemistry! From a fake date to an unexpected kiss, the story escalates quickly into a steamy affair that left me fanning myself. Ms. Kennedy definitely knows how to turn up the heat without sacrificing the plot’s integrity.

If you have read a book from Elle Kennedy before the depth of the characters shouldn’t surprise you. Sure, it’s a romance novel, but both Hannah and Garrett have their struggles and vulnerabilities. The layers of their personalities unfold beautifully throughout the book, adding a refreshing dose of realism to the sizzling romance.

The college setting and hockey backdrop add an extra layer of fun. You can practically feel the energy on the ice and the tension in the classrooms. It’s a perfect blend of sports, romance, and a sprinkle of academic stress for good measure.

To sum it up friends, “The Deal” is a page-turner that delivers on all fronts—humor, romance, and a healthy dose of drama. Elle Kennedy has created a world that you won’t want to leave, and by the end of the book, you’ll be left wanting to pick up the next in the series and with a strong desire to enroll in a college with a hockey team. Pick up the box set, which will be released on November 21, 2023, and trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this one. Happy reading, friends!