If you're a fan of college romance with witty banter, sizzling chemistry, and heartfelt moments, The Deal by Elle Kennedy is a must-read! This book kicks off the Off-Campus series, introducing us to one of the most beloved hockey romance stories in the genre.
Book Summary
Hannah Wells is a dedicated college student and music major who’s been crushing on a guy who barely knows she exists. But thanks to a painful past, she struggles with confidence when it comes to relationships. Enter Garrett Graham—cocky, charming, and the captain of the college hockey team.
When Garrett’s grades threaten his ability to play, he realizes Hannah might be his ticket to staying on the team. In exchange for tutoring, he offers her something she can’t resist: a fake date to make her crush jealous. But what starts as a harmless deal quickly turns into something much more real.
As Garrett and Hannah grow closer, secrets are revealed, vulnerabilities are exposed, and sparks fly in ways neither of them expected. But can they let their walls down and admit their feelings before it’s too late?
Book Review – Why We Love The Deal
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rating: 5/5 Stars
Elle Kennedy delivers a perfect mix of humor, steam, and emotional depth, making The Deal an unforgettable read. Here’s why this book deserves a top spot on your TBR:
- Witty Banter & Fun Dialogue – The back-and-forth between Hannah and Garrett is chef’s kiss perfection. Their dynamic is full of hilarious one-liners, flirty teasing, and genuine conversations that make you fall in love with them.
- A Refreshing Take on the Fake Dating Trope – Unlike many fake dating romances, Hannah and Garrett's relationship evolves naturally, making the transition from pretend to real feel incredibly authentic.
- Hannah is a Relatable, Strong Heroine – She’s smart, driven, and refreshingly realistic. Despite her past struggles, she remains independent and knows her worth, making her an easy character to root for.
- Garrett is More Than Just an Arrogant Jock – While he starts as the typical arrogant athlete, his charm and loyalty quickly show that he’s more than meets the eye. He supports Hannah in ways that make him one of the best book boyfriends out there.
- Real Emotional Depth – This book isn’t just about romance—it also tackles heavier topics with care and authenticity, giving the story an added layer of depth.
- The Perfect Balance of Spice & Story – If you love slow burn with explosive chemistry, The Deal delivers with well-written, steamy scenes that add to the emotional connection between Hannah and Garrett.
Why You Should Read The Deal
If you’re in the mood for a new adult romance that checks all the right boxes, The Deal is it. It’s a book that will make you laugh, swoon, and stay up way too late turning pages. Plus, if you love sports romance, this one kicks off an entire Off-Campus series featuring more irresistible hockey players and their love stories.
✔ Fake Dating
✔ College Hockey Romance
✔ Witty Banter & Swoon-Worthy Chemistry
✔ Strong Heroine & Charming Hero
✔ Emotional Depth with a Lighthearted Feel
Books to Try If You Loved The Deal
If The Deal left you wanting more, here are a few books to check out next:
The Mistake
by Elle Kennedy
The second book in the Off-Campus series follows Logan, Garrett’s best friend, and his own unexpected romance.
Icebreaker
By Hannah Grace
A fresh take on college hockey romance with a competitive figure skater and a charming team captain.
Blind Side
by Kandi Steiner
If you love the fake dating trope with emotional depth, this football romance will hit all the right spots.
Pucking Around
By Emily Rath
A unique and spicy hockey romance perfect for those looking for something outside the typical sports romance mold.
If you're as obsessed with the Off-Campus and Briar U series as I am, then you need to check out the Briar U hockey sweatshirts from Posifity!
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Final Thoughts
The Deal is more than just another college romance—it’s a book that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. With unforgettable characters, emotional depth, and sizzling chemistry, Elle Kennedy delivers a story that’s as entertaining as it is heartwarming.
It’s not surprising that this international best-selling set of novels has fans raving on TikTok—and now we hear an Amazon MGM Studios TV adaptation is in the works!
If you loved The Deal, then you need to check out my guide to the rest of the Off-Campus series! Each book follows a different hockey player from Briar U, delivering even more swoon-worthy romance, laugh-out-loud banter, and emotional depth. Whether you’re into fake dating, opposites attract, or second chances, this series has something for everyone
If you haven’t read The Deal yet, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy today and fall in love with Garrett and Hannah’s story!
Have you read The Deal? Let’s chat in the comments! What’s your favorite college romance?
