The Deal

The Deal by Elle Kennedy is a bestselling contemporary college romance that blends humor, emotional growth, and irresistible chemistry. Set in a competitive university environment, the novel introduces two unforgettable characters whose lives collide through an unexpected agreement that changes everything.

Hannah Wells is smart, independent, and confident—except when it comes to intimacy. Carrying emotional baggage from her past, she struggles to pursue the guy she’s been crushing on. Determined to step outside her comfort zone and finally be noticed, Hannah makes a bold choice: she agrees to tutor the campus hockey star in exchange for his help staging a fake date to spark jealousy.

That hockey star is Garrett Graham, the arrogant yet charming captain of the team. Garrett’s dreams of going pro are on the line when his grades begin to slip, threatening his eligibility to play. Desperate to stay on the ice, he agrees to Hannah’s deal, seeing it as a simple, mutually beneficial arrangement. After all, pretending to date a witty brunette seems like a small price to pay for academic survival.

What begins as a practical exchange quickly turns complicated. As Hannah and Garrett spend more time together, playful banter gives way to genuine connection. Unexpected attraction and emotional honesty force both of them to confront their fears, insecurities, and assumptions about love. Garrett soon realizes that what started as “pretend” feels far too real—and that the woman Hannah wants might be standing right in front of her.

Praised for its strong character development and engaging dialogue, The Deal is the first book in Elle Kennedy’s popular Off-Campus series. It appeals to fans of new adult romance who enjoy college settings, slow-burn relationships, and heartfelt storytelling.