Elle Kennedy’s Off-Campus series has carved out a notable space in the new adult sports romance genre, and the third installment, The Score, continues the trend of focusing on college hockey players navigating relationships and personal growth. This review comes from reading the book in both print and e-book formats, primarily for leisure reading during commutes and quiet evenings. It’s the kind of novel you pick up when you want a predictable but satisfying escape, not a literary challenge.
The story centers on Dean Di Laurentis, a charismatic and unapologetically promiscuous hockey player who meets his match in Allie Hayes, a determined senior dealing with post-graduation uncertainty. The key functional features here are the dual perspectives—switching between Dean and Allie—which offers insight into both characters’ motivations. Kennedy’s writing is straightforward and dialogue-driven, making the pages turn quickly. The romance builds through a mix of witty banter and physical tension, with a slow-burn arc that feels earned rather than rushed. The setting, the fictional Briar University, provides a cozy, familiar backdrop that fans of the series will appreciate.
A notable strength is how Kennedy handles Dean’s character development. He starts as a stereotypical “player” but gradually reveals layers of vulnerability and a desire for genuine connection, which feels more realistic than a sudden, unconvincing transformation. The emotional beats—like Dean’s interactions with his family or Allie’s struggles with her career path—add depth without overwhelming the romance. However, the book isn’t without its limitations. The pacing can feel uneven; the middle third drags with repetitive internal monologues about commitment fears, while the ending wraps up a bit too neatly, almost like a checklist resolution. For readers who prefer more nuanced conflict, this might feel contrived.
Compared to other new adult sports romances, like those in Sarina Bowen’s Brooklyn Bruisers series, The Score leans heavier on the “college experience” vibe—parties, dorm life, and team dynamics—rather than the professional sports world. This makes it feel more youthful and less polished, which is both a charm and a drawback. The trade-off is that while the setting feels authentic for a college story, the emotional stakes sometimes feel lower than in novels where careers are on the line. The humor is often crude but fits the characters, though some readers might find the constant sex jokes a bit much after a while.
Who is this book for? It’s a solid pick for fans of contemporary romance who enjoy a reformed playboy trope with a healthy dose of steam and character growth. It’s also good for those who want a lighter read that doesn’t demand intense emotional investment—perfect for a weekend binge. However, it’s not ideal for readers seeking literary prose, complex plot twists, or a romance that challenges traditional gender dynamics. The book leans into familiar tropes without subverting them, so if you’re tired of the “bad boy changes for the right girl” narrative, you might find it predictable. Additionally, the explicit scenes are frequent and descriptive, so those preferring closed-door romance should look elsewhere.
In real-world use, The Score works best as a comfort read. It doesn’t break new ground but executes its formula competently. The characters are likeable enough to root for, and the chemistry between Dean and Allie is palpable. If you’ve read the previous books in the series, you’ll enjoy the cameos from familiar faces, but it can stand alone without too much confusion. For a balanced perspective, it’s worth noting that while the book is entertaining, it won’t stick with you long after you finish. It’s a pleasant diversion, not a memorable masterpiece.
- Strengths: Strong character arc for Dean, engaging dialogue, and a satisfying slow-burn romance.
- Weaknesses: Uneven pacing, tidy ending, and reliance on familiar tropes without innovation.
- Best for: Fans of new adult sports romance who want a steamy, low-stakes read.
- Not for: Readers looking for literary depth, complex plots, or non-explicit romance.
Overall, The Score delivers what it promises: a fun, sexy story about a hockey player learning to care about someone more than his own ego. It’s not groundbreaking, but it doesn’t need to be. For its target audience, it’s a reliable choice that hits the expected notes without much surprise.