The Deal
Book Description
She’s desperate for a fresh start, and he’s a notorious player with a reputation to uphold. When college misfits Hannah and Garrett strike an unlikely deal—she’ll help him ace a course if he helps her catch the eye of her crush—sparks ignite in an unexpected game of romance. As they navigate the tangled web of attraction and ambition, their carefully constructed walls begin to crumble, revealing vulnerabilities and secrets that could change everything. Will they risk it all for a love neither of them saw coming, or will their past choices tear them apart?
Quick Summary
"The Deal" by Elle Kennedy is a steamy and emotional college romance that follows Hannah Wells, a determined music student, and Garrett Graham, a charming hockey star at Briar University. Hannah wants to attract the attention of her elusive crush, while Garrett needs help passing a philosophy class to remain eligible for hockey. Their arrangement to tutor each other becomes an unexpected journey of vulnerability, trust, and healing. As their undeniable chemistry grows, both are forced to confront past traumas and insecurities. Together, they discover a genuine connection that challenges their perceptions of love and self-worth, proving that sometimes the best relationships are the ones you never planned.
Summary of Key Ideas
Table of Contents
Unlikely alliances and personal growth
Hannah Wells is a driven and sensitive student at Briar University, still healing from difficult experiences in her past. When her crush seems unattainable, she seeks a way to capture his attention. Enter Garrett Graham, the star hockey player facing academic trouble that could jeopardize his place on the team. An unlikely agreement is struck—Hannah will tutor Garrett in exchange for his help making her crush notice her. What begins as a simple collaboration soon reveals the complexity of both characters.
Facing past trauma and learning to trust
As they spend time together, Hannah and Garrett discover unexpected compatibility and mutual respect. Despite initial intentions, their relationship grows deeper, marked by sharp banter, shared vulnerabilities, and sincere support. Each wrestles with personal issues beneath their confident exteriors: Hannah with her traumatic past and social anxieties, Garrett with the pressure of living up to his father’s hockey legacy and fears of failing those he cares about.
Balancing ambition with vulnerability
Their growing intimacy forces Hannah and Garrett to face their pasts and insecurities. Hannah learns to trust again, sharing painful memories and reclaiming her confidence. Garrett, meanwhile, confronts the expectations placed on him, allowing himself to open up emotionally. Through their evolving dynamic, both characters demonstrate the importance of vulnerability in overcoming personal challenges and finding genuine connection.
Transforming friendship into love
The deal that began as a pragmatic exchange transforms into something far more meaningful as the lines between friendship and romance blur. The duo challenges each other to be honest and authentic, breaking down walls they’d carefully built. Sparks fly, tested by jealousies, misunderstandings, and the uncertainty of risking their hearts. Seeking happiness and fulfillment, both question whether love is worth stepping beyond their comfort zones.
Overcoming fear to embrace authenticity
In the end, Hannah and Garrett’s journey is one of self-discovery, healing, and courage. By embracing their flaws and allowing themselves to be seen, they learn that true love often requires letting go of the past and accepting vulnerability. Their story is a celebration of new beginnings, the strength found in opening up, and the unexpected joy that comes from taking a chance on real connection.