Review of The Mistake (Off-Campus, #2) by Elle Kennedy
Ah, The Mistake! If I’m being honest, it was a guilty pleasure I eagerly anticipated after my infatuation with The Deal earlier this year. Elle Kennedy has a remarkable way of breathing life into her characters and crafting relatable narratives that transcend the typical tropes of New Adult fiction. As I dove back into the world of Briar University, I couldn’t help but feel that familiar excitement bubbling over.
In this second installment, we meet Logan, Garrett’s best friend, who finds himself navigating the complicated web of feelings when he develops a crush on Hannah, Garrett’s girlfriend. Compounded by familial responsibilities and personal struggles, Logan grapples with his emotions in a way that’s both genuine and heart-wrenching. The story introduces us to Grace, a freshman whose predictable life gets tossed upside down when she crosses paths with Logan at a party. Her quirky, nervous banter about safety is honestly one of the most endearing introductions I’ve ever come across. Watching the two characters evolve through their insecurities and miscommunications felt real and relatable.
Kennedy does a beautiful job of blending humor with heavier themes. Logan is not just a handsome jock; he carries the weight of family issues, particularly his father’s alcoholism, while Grace struggles to come into her own identity, often feeling overshadowed by her more outgoing best friend. The depth of their situations, coupled with moments of light-heartedness, creates a dynamic that keeps readers invested. I found myself rooting for them, not just romantically, but as individuals wanting to find their respective paths.
What struck me most about Kennedy’s writing style in The Mistake is her ability to create authentic dialogue and character interactions. The pacing is spot-on—ensuring that the romantic tension doesn’t feel rushed but rather developed through moments of vulnerability and connection. The lines between humor and heartache are beautifully blurred, making me laugh one moment and reach for tissues the next.
One of the standout moments for me was when Logan acknowledges his mistakes and his desire to rectify them. It’s a universal sentiment—who among us hasn’t wished to turn back time and do things differently? That’s the beauty of Kennedy’s storytelling; it resonates on a personal level. The quote, “It’s not about the mistakes you make; it’s about how you fix them,” encapsulates the essence of both Logan’s and Grace’s journeys.
Honestly, if you enjoyed The Deal, you’ll likely find The Mistake just as appealing, if not more so. It’s a tale of self-discovery, the trials of young adulthood, and the messy yet beautiful journey of falling in love. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates layered characters grappling with their realities while discovering love along the way.
After finishing this emotionally charged journey, I find myself eagerly awaiting the next story in the series. Perhaps Dean will take the center stage? In the meantime, I’ll be reflecting on Logan and Grace and the lessons they taught me about love, mistakes, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Happy reading, fellow book lovers!
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