Hey, friends! Happy Monday. Ready to hear about book 3 in the off-campus series? I just wrapped up Elle Kennedy’s “The Score,” and let me tell you, it’s like a rom-com on steroids—hilarious, heartwarming, and hotter than hot.

Our leading lady, Allie Hayes, is in the classic post-college crisis mode. Graduation is looming, and she’s not sure about which direction she wants her future to take. To add a dash of complication, she’s got a broken heart courtesy of a recent breakup. Enter Dean Di Laurentis, the hockey star with a reputation for scoring on and off the ice. After trying to avoid her ex-Sean, Allie’s one wild night with Dean might be the perfect remedy for some more fun, but Dean has other plans, my friends.

Dean is a f*ckboy, who definitely is graduating with a PhD in charm. But then there’s Allie, the feisty blonde who doesn’t fall for his moves. Their one-night stand rocks Dean’s world, and suddenly, he’s faced with a challenge he’s not used to—winning over a woman who wants more than just a casual fling.

The banter between these two is gold. Elle Kennedy once again proves she’s the queen of witty dialogue. The interactions between Allie and Dean had me grinning like a maniac. And can we talk about the laugh-out-loud moments? Because trust me, there are plenty.

The chemistry, friends, is off the charts. From the steamy encounters to the unexpected twists, the romance in “The Score” is like a slow burn that gradually engulfs you. You’ll find yourself cheering for this unlikely duo, hoping they’ll figure out that maybe, just maybe, love is the ultimate score.

I was surprised by the depth of Dean as a character. He has been playing the role of laid-back dumb jock for the previous two books. Both Allie and Dean have layers that go beyond the typical stereotypes of actress and jock. If you’ve read any of Elle Kennedy’s previous novels, The character depth should not come as a surprise, and yet I was. As they navigate life’s curveballs, you’ll find yourself emotionally invested in their journey, and that’s the mark of a well-crafted story.

As with the previous novels, The college setting provides the perfect backdrop, but this book actually contains a lot less hockey than previous novels. Dean’s journey from scoring on and off the ice to realizing there’s more to life than his playboy reputation is a satisfying character arc that gives the story a sweet touch.

To sum it up, “The Score” is a wonderful read for anyone who loves romance served with a side of laughter. Elle Kennedy has once again hit it out of the park (or should I say rink?) with this one. So pick up the box set (It releases tomorrow November 21), settle in, and get ready for a romantic ride that’s as entertaining and heartwarming. Happy reading, friends!