The Deal
by Elle Kennedy
As we approach the release of the new Prime adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series, I decided to reread the first book in the pentology, The Deal.
The Deal follows Hannah and Garrett, two college students living two very different lives. Hannah just aced her ethics exam, and Garrett failed, and now, subsequently, needs to retake the exam or playing hockey goes away. When he catches sight of Hannah’s big, bold A, he asks her to tutor him, and her immediate and persistent response is no.
But when Garrett notices her obvious crush on a certain football player, he makes her a proposition, she tutors him, and he makes her look like she’s off the market, because Garrett knows well how men can’t help but love the chase.
And so, they make a deal.
What a good decision it was to re‑read the first book in the Off‑Campus series. The Deal is still exactly as I remember—fun, hilarious, and hot. I do believe, in my heart of hearts, that every hockey romance book that came after The Deal is still trying to live up to it.
Elle Kennedy has such an easy writing style to fall into, and the story progresses at a great pace. None of it felt rushed, forced, or—god forbid—boring. The banter between Garrett and Hannah is delicious, and I found myself kicking my feet like a schoolgirl.
Reading this book on a cosy Saturday afternoon, knowing I didn’t have work the next day, made the experience even sweeter. The air was chilly, the wind crisp, and the vibe perfect for getting lost again. When I finished The Deal, I couldn’t contain my excitement—I immediately wanted to pick up the sequel. This cheesy hockey romance reminded me what life is all about: joy, friendship, and love.
If you haven’t read the Off‑Campus series, or its spin‑off, Briar‑U, I would highly encourage giving it a read before the adaptation starts streaming later this month.
My final star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Find it on Goodreads: The Deal by Elle Kennedy
For my South Africans, find it here: Amazon.co.za, Takealot
For my across-the-worlders, find it here: Amazon.com
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