Elle Kennedy’s novel, ‘The Deal’ follows college students Hannah Wells, an aspiring singer, and Garrett Graham, star hockey player bound for the pros. When Graham finds himself struggling to keep his GPA afloat, he works to recruit Wells as his personal tutor so he can continue to lead his team to victory. Wells, however, is tirelessly busy with preparing for a musical showcase and schoolwork of her own. To sweeten the arrangement, Graham offers to help Wells secure a date with the guy she’s been pining over. The two enter a ‘semi-fake relationship’ to make Wells’ social status climb the ranks, while Graham gets a crash course on how to survive the class he’s failing.
However, close proximity, fake dating and spending a majority of their time together complicates things more than either expected. When they realize they have fallen for each other, the two must work out personal life goals and past traumas while helping each other heal along the way.
This story was an easy, quick read for me. The story arch and the writing style kept me captivated and flipping the pages. The chemistry and banter between the two main characters was easy to follow and incredibly enjoyable to read. Each character, including the side characters, had well rounded personalities and story arcs, making them easily loveable.
At times, the writing could be incredibly cheesy or corny, but never so much so that it was unbearable. This book also focuses a lot on trauma. Including, but not limited to: rape, domestic abuse and more. Throughout reading the story, there were times when the discussion of these topics felt rather out of place and uncomfortable. However, this level of discomfort added a more personal connection for readers, as these topics are necessary even when they make us feel uneasy.
The romance and chemistry in this story was undeniably adorable. The way in which Graham talks about Wells is prime book-boyfriend heartthrob material. Their relationship does a good job at encapsulating many college relationships and the struggle of juggling priorities and goals with feelings and interests. Fair warning, this book can be rather explicit. If you’re looking for the equivalent of a steamy shower, this book is perfect. If smut makes you cringe and contemplate lighting a trashcan on fire (and not in a good way), maybe skip this one.
Overall, I’d give this book a solid 4/5. It’s no Earnest Hemingway novel, but it’s easy to follow and an ideal choice when you’re in the mood for a heart-warming pick me up.
