A Heartfelt Review of The Deal (Off-Campus, #1) by Elle Kennedy
When I first stumbled upon The Deal, the buzz surrounding Elle Kennedy’s deep dive into college romance piqued my interest. It promised a mix of humor, heart, and heat, elements that often draw me into a good new adult read. However, what I found left me grappling with mixed emotions and significant concerns.
This story revolves around Hannah Wells and Garrett Graham, two students with lingering tensions that lead them into a complicated romantic relationship. Hannah, a music major haunted by past trauma, and Garrett, the charming yet cocky hockey player, represent the classic "opposites attract" trope. Yet as I delved deeper, I found the narrative riddled with problematic themes that overshadowed the potential for a beautiful love story.
Kennedy’s writing style held promise—her dialogue is sharp at times, and the pacing keeps you engaged—but the substance falters. Both characters walk into their relationship carrying emotional baggage that could have been explored more sensitively. The book grapples with heavy themes like past trauma, consent, and societal expectations, but its execution often felt shallow and riddled with clichés.
One of the lines that resonated deeply with me was when Hannah asserts her desires, saying, "Because I want to." This moment sparks a glimpse of empowerment that is unfortunately muffled by the characters’ toxic dynamics. Significant issues like slut-shaming, internalized misogyny, and the normalization of predatory behavior are woven throughout the text, creating a backdrop that should have reinforced the story’s feminist undertones but instead detracts from it.
From cringeworthy dialogue—“Do you high five yourself?”—to Garrett’s aggressive pursuit of Hannah’s tutor services even after repeated rejections, I found myself frustrated. The underlying message that persistence equates to affection left me uneasy, especially given the context of Hannah’s past. Complex relationships can still be portrayed sensitively, but this often crossed lines I found unsettling as a reader.
That said, there is a flicker of hope in moments where the characters display genuine growth, particularly Garrett’s evolution as he learns to respect Hannah’s boundaries. Still, it is hard to overlook how the narrative leaned heavily into stereotypical gender dynamics, perpetuating a "boys will be boys" mentality while failing to challenge it adequately.
Ultimately, The Deal is a mixed bag. While some readers might appreciate its steamy moments and the romance that blooms from its chaotic backdrop, others, like myself, may find the thematic execution frustrating and disappointing. If you’re drawn to college romances filled with charm and conflict but can overlook problematic elements, this one might still hold some appeal.
In conclusion, I can resonate with those who enjoyed the lighthearted banter and the familiar setting of college life, but also urge readers to approach with caution. This reading experience left me contemplating the representation of women in contemporary romance and the intricate dance between empowerment and disempowerment. For those eager to explore characters that mirror discomforting real-world dynamics, The Deal may offer more than just a typical romance—it’s a mirror reflecting both the highs and lows of young love.
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